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Most coaches will offer a complimentary sample session during which both parties can get acquainted and see how they will work together. It is a time for both the coach and the client to test the waters and see if this is a relationship that will be productive and conducive to achieving the goals the client has in mind. It is a time to lay the ground rules and begin to explore some possibilities.

Most coaches will ask the client some basic questions. Questions such as what do you hope to get out of the coaching relationship will begin to identify some definite goals to work towards. Other questions such as are you in a committed relationship or do you have care-giving responsibilities for others will give the coach an idea of your personal life situation.

When hiring a professional coach, it's smart to ask some basic questions yourself. Questions such as what is your niche or specialty will give the client an idea of the coaches' strengths and areas of expertise. Do not be afraid to discuss fees. Coaches want their clients to make informed decisions and they want whatever is best for their clients. An ethical coach will not continue the coaching relationship if he perceives there to be a conflict of interest or if the coaching will pose undue financial hardship on the client. Neither will professional coaches offer their services for free. Occasionally, a coach may offer a limited time special price; however, it is ultimately up to the coaches' discretion and should not be solicited by the client.

Once the coaching agreement is signed by both parties, the client and coach enter into what is known as the co-creative relationship. Both the client as well as the coach has some expectations of what each will bring to the sessions. The client expects the coach to be there for him and to guide him to find the answers that he seeks. He expects the coach to listen at a deep level and take his issues, feelings, and concerns seriously. Clients also like for coaches to share information with them that may assist them in reaching their decisions.

Coaches expect their clients to bring an agenda or topic of discussion to each meeting. They expect that the client will do their homework between sessions. Coaches expect their clients to participate fully in the sessions and accept responsibility for their actions. Coaches may make suggestions, but rarely will they do the work for the client.

In order to make a fully informed decision about whether coaching is right for you, please consider the following five tips:

1. Are you at a place in your life where you can devote your time and energy to work through issues that you identify?

2. Are you willing to do what it takes to make positive changes in your life and situation?

3. Are you financially able to enter into a coaching relationship knowing that it is an investment in yourself that will pay dividends many times over?

4. Are you able to step back and look objectively at your situation and accept that you and you alone are responsible for what has, is, and will happen?

5. Are you happy about and at peace with your decision to enter into a coaching relationship?

Coaching is a wonderful gift that you can give yourself. By making this investment in yourself, you are in essence acknowledging that you are worthy and deserving of life's best. By allowing yourself to take this gift, you are freeing yourself up to receive blessings on many levels. For more tips on whether coaching is right for you, visit Irene's website at www.clientcenteredcoaching.com.