I'm in the process of changing careers and would like to become a life coach in a different discipline, wondering if certification is truly necessary.
As with many things in life most things are not necessary. From a Sales Expert perspective I would look at this perhaps differently than others.
There are many life coaches that you have to compete with. How would you like to differentiate yourself from them? When researching your competition do they have specific certifications that they promote? If not would you having certain certifications set you apart?
I always think why do my customers buy from me? Taking that a step farther I actually ask them, "You have a lot of great choices in our market but you decided to do business with me. Can you explain to me why you made that choice?" My favorite answers are;
I feel like I am your only customer
You actually asked me that question
The difference between you and everyone else, you care
Even if you can't solve my problem you help me find someone who can.
If you are trying to decide to go into business no matter what you have a product to sell. In this case you are the product. If you ever want to brainstorm. Feel free to give me a call.
Make it a great day!
David
No I don't have certificate but have life experiences
call me to explain different between certificate and experience
It actually depends on what is being coached. It is a accumulation of experience and certificates. Experience has the memories of certainly what not to do and could guide what new could be tried. Where as, certificate ascertains he/she theoretically has the skillset to coach/guide.
Yes there are formal ways of getting certified but in general it's important each coach finds their own practice, process and way to deliver results. That being said, all coaches should follow internationally agreed practices and conduct to ensure client and coach wellbeing, professionalism and safety.
Yes, I have a specific certification as a coach. I am proud to be an Eric Thomas certified Extreme Execution Coach. This certification program is based on the teachings of renowned motivational speaker and coach, Dr. Eric Thomas, and focuses on mastery of behavior styles as a pathway to measurable success.
As an Extreme Execution Coach, I have undergone extensive training and certification to help individuals identify their behavior style, including their strengths and weaknesses, and develop strategies to optimize their performance and achieve their goals. Through this program, I have gained a deep understanding of the importance of accountability, discipline, and self-awareness in the pursuit of success.
One of the key focuses of this certification program is on helping individuals master their behavior styles. By understanding their unique behavior style and how it affects their actions and outcomes, individuals can take control of their lives and achieve greater success and fulfillment. Through coaching sessions, assessments, and other tools, I work closely with my clients to develop customized strategies that leverage their strengths and mitigate their weaknesses.
As an Eric Thomas certified Extreme Execution Coach, I am committed to helping my clients achieve measurable success by mastering their behavior styles and unlocking their full potential. I am passionate about empowering individuals to take control of their lives, overcome obstacles, and achieve their dreams.
That’s a brilliant question, and one that many people ask when considering a move into coaching.
I’m a certified Trauma-Informed Coach with specialist training and personal experience in domestic abuse. While formal qualifications aren’t legally required to become a life coach—at least not here in the UK—it’s worth thinking about the kind of coach you want to be and how you’d like to support others.
Personally, I believe having lived experience in the area you’re coaching can make a real difference. It helps you connect with clients on a deeper level and truly understand what they’re going through.
That said, I know some outstanding coaches who don’t have formal qualifications or personal experience in their niche, and they still offer incredible support. So it’s not a strict requirement—it’s more about what feels right for you.
If you’re serious about coaching as a career, ask yourself:
- Do I want to specialise in a particular area?
- Would I feel more confident with formal training?
- What kind of clients do I want to work with—and what would they expect from me?
Ultimately, it’s not just about ticking boxes—it’s about alignment. Whether you choose to pursue qualifications or rely on your lived experience, what matters most is that you feel equipped and authentic in your role. That’s what builds trust and creates impact.
