27/05/2025
Here's how I would go about hiring a coach to help me achieve incredible results
Coaching is a relationship-based service.
The rapport you build with your coach is key to achieving the results you’re looking for.
Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential coaches, use this guide to ask the right questions.
After these conversations, you’ll probably feel ready to pick “the one.”
1. What experience do you have working with clients like me?
Specifically, inquire about their track record with clients who have goals similar to yours or those from a similar demographic / stage of life as you.
This question serves as a filter to ensure you’re choosing a coach who understands your specific needs.
2. What are your credentials?
This question is probably essential: It can provide you with additional confidence, and ensures a coach has a certain baseline of knowledge.
Some coaches might have “niche” certifications—like pre- and post-natal fitness, or specific dietary plans—that might benefit you and your specific needs.
It’s about ensuring you’re in safe hands.
3. What’s your coaching philosophy?
A coach’s philosophy encompasses their beliefs about health, wellbeing, and their approach to goal setting and attainment.
Does it align with your values and beliefs regarding health and wellness?
4. What does your coaching process look like?
Knowing a coach’s process allows you to anticipate the strategies they’ll employ to help you reach your goals. It also helps you gauge whether their approach works with your preferences and expectations.
5. If I sign up, will you create my workouts? (Or: What will you help me with?)
Understand the exact services a coach will provide—such as nutrition, movement, or stress management.
And find out how flexible their plan is. For example, if you already have a workout program that you’re comfortable with, are they okay if you stick with it?
On the other hand, if you’re starting with a clean slate, will they tailor a workout to suit your needs?
Some coaches place a heavy emphasis on exercise, while others might have a more flexible approach that focuses on nutrition and other lifestyle habits.
6. How will we keep in touch, and how often?
Some coaches prefer regular check-ins via video calls, while others may use messaging platforms or email correspondence. Either way, it’s good to know. (And good to assess whether their communication style suits you!)
Ask how often you’ll have check-ins, progress updates, or opportunities to ask questions.
Establishing this now will save you time and improve communication ongoing.
7. If we were to start working together tomorrow, where would we start?
A seasoned coach will have a clear and structured starting template for new clients.
They should be able to articulate a logical sequence of steps that demonstrates their expertise with the change process.
This gives you confidence that they have successfully navigated clients through similar journeys in the past.
8. If we work together, what time commitment is expected of me (the client)?
Before asking this question, consider your availability and how much time and energy you can realistically dedicate to nutrition and fitness.
The level of time and engagement required can vary significantly from one coach to another. So, find a coach who can work with your schedule and level of commitment.
Some coaches may have a more structured approach, requiring frequent check-ins and consistent communication. This can benefit clients who need a higher level of accountability and structured guidance.
On the other hand, other coaches may offer a “looser” style, providing resources and support that clients can access at their own pace.
9. What tools, apps, platforms, and equipment do you expect clients to use?
Some coaches may have specific apps or platforms they prefer clients to use for tracking progress, while others just work with whatever you already have on hand.
If they do have specific tools they like to use, just ensure that you feel comfortable and capable using them.
10. How do you measure progress?
Find out how your coach will evaluate your progress—whether it’s through tracking behaviours, body measurements, or other metrics.
This ensures that you have a clear understanding of how your progress will be assessed—and celebrated!
11. How do you handle ebbs and flows in motivation?
Ebbs and flows in motivation are natural.
The response you receive should feel reassuring, as it’s likely to be indicative of how they’ll support you when you’re feeling less enthusiastic—or even frustrated—about progress.
If a coach can address these fluctuations with empathy, understanding, and practical strategies, you’ll be well supported.
12. Do you have any current / former clients I can talk to?
Testimonials and personal accounts can provide powerful evidence of a coach’s ability to facilitate positive change.
A coach who’s organised and effective should have no trouble providing references or connecting you with past clients.
13. What questions do you have for me?
A good coach understands that coaching is a collaborative effort.
They recognise the importance of getting to know you, and this question allows the coach to gather the information necessary to design an individualised coaching plan.
Furthermore, a coach who has a set of thoughtful and pertinent questions demonstrates their commitment to your success. They should be interested in your aspirations, challenges, and preferences in order to provide the best possible guidance and support.
