Importance of Ethical and Professional Standards in Coaching

Introduction

In this session, we delve into the significance of adhering to ethical and professional standards within a coaching relationship.

Clear Standards from the Start

Establishing Confidence: It's essential to clarify ethical and professional standards with the client at the onset of the coaching relationship. This ensures the client feels confident in dealing with a professional coach and assures them of a safe and secure coaching environment.

Using Codes of Ethics

Best Practices: Utilizing codes of ethics and good practice documents is recommended in coaching. These documents provide clients with comprehensive information, setting clear expectations for the coaching sessions. An example document is available on your dashboard.

Key Statements in the Document:

• Fitness to Practice: This section outlines the coach's qualifications, skills, experience, and insurance cover.
• Maintaining Good Practice: Covers behavior before, during, and after coaching sessions, including respect for individuals and organizations, sensitivity to cultural and gender issues, feedback monitoring policy, CPD commitment, reflection on coaching practice, and client referral procedures.
• Contracting: Provides contractual information supporting the coaching agreement, including the coach's commitment to the code of ethics, terms and conditions, conflict resolution, confidentiality, and client termination rights.
• Legal Requirements: Addresses legal obligations such as record-keeping, DBS checks for working with children or vulnerable adults, and other legal considerations.

Implementation

Coaching Agreement: Coaches must have a code of ethics in place and discuss it with clients before entering into a coaching agreement. This ensures clarity and adherence to ethical and professional standards from the outset of the coaching relationship, supported by a measurable document outlining these principles.