5 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Wellness Coach
Embarking on a wellness journey can be transformative, and choosing the right coach is pivotal. This article demystifies the selection process with pivotal questions informed by industry experts, ensuring a tailored and evidence-based approach to personal well-being. Gain the insider knowledge needed to align with a coach that resonates with individual values and fosters lasting growth.
- Ask About Coaching Process
- Align Coach With Your Values
- Tailor Approach to Individual Needs
- Ensure Commitment and Communication
- Find Personalized and Evidence-Based Coaching
Ask About Coaching Process
Hiring a wellness coach is a big decision. You are opening your life to someone else and that person needs to be the right fit. Asking a few questions before you give your credit card info will help you feel more comfortable with your decision.
First, ask the coaches you're considering working with to clearly explain the process they will take you through. Will it be customized to your specific goals or is it more cookie-cutter where they just plunk you into a pre-designed program? You don't need all the specifics, but you should have an overall idea of what to expect.
Second, find out how much one-on-one time you will receive with the actual coach. Many online coaches are very involved at the beginning but then hand you off to someone who works for them.
Third, I would make sure your personalities jibe. You don't need to be BFFs but you do need to work well together. The relationship shouldn't feel forced. You should look forward to your meetings and value their communication.
There's no right answer to these questions. Rather, these questions will help you get a clearer picture of what to expect. Then you get to decide if what they're offering is what you want. And if you have other questions, just ask! I've heard almost everything so don't be afraid to dig deeper. I want my clients to be comfortable and excited to work with me.
Align Coach With Your Values
Make sure the coach aligns with your values rather than just a checklist of things to fix. In addition, I suggest looking for someone who does not have a one-size-fits-all perspective. While it's great to have a system, it is essential that the coach can meet your particular needs. Some foundational questions to ask are about the coach's philosophy, how they tailor their coaching to meet a client's needs, and how they handle setbacks.
Tailor Approach to Individual Needs
When I first considered working with a coach, I didn't know what to look for. I definitely made mistakes. Now, as a certified personal trainer, I think one of the most important things to ask a wellness coach is how they tailor their approach to fit individual needs.
A good coach should adapt to you, not force you into a rigid system. Ask about their experience with people who share your challenges, whether that's neurodivergence, injuries, or specific fitness goals.
I once worked with a coach I found online, who had great credentials but the reality was that they didn't take time to understand me and my unique needs. They called me names like 'sweetie' and 'beautiful' which made me uncomfortable, and they seemed to dismiss my concerns. The best coaches listen. They ask what works for you, what doesn't, and adjust accordingly.
Consider their communication style. Do they check in regularly? Do they provide guidance beyond sessions? A great coach doesn't just train you, they empower you to make progress on your own. If a coach can't explain how they'll help you succeed in a way that makes sense to you, they may not be the right fit.
My biggest piece of advice is to do your own research. Always see if there is a trial session available so you can get a feel for the vibe between you both before you commit.
Ensure Commitment and Communication
If you plan on hiring a fitness coach, you must first be honest about putting 100% effort into yourself. People often want to get help but don't want to dig deep, answer the hard questions, and/or put the work in. The most important question is whether there are other opportunities to work together besides a once-a-week Zoom/call. I find that most people need a little encouragement or advice or just a quick convo with me, either sharing their accomplishments/failures. This method helps, and can be done via email/DM.
Find Personalized and Evidence-Based Coaching
When hiring a wellness coach, the most important piece of advice is to ensure their approach aligns with your specific needs, personality, and long-term goals. Wellness coaching is not one-size-fits-all, so it's crucial to find a coach whose methods resonate with you and who can provide evidence-based guidance rather than just general advice.
Key Questions to Ask a Potential Wellness Coach:
What is your background and certification? - Look for credible training in wellness coaching, psychology, nutrition, or fitness, depending on your needs.
How do you tailor your approach to individual clients? - A great coach adapts their strategies based on behavioral tendencies, lifestyle, and motivation styles.
Do you use any assessments or structured frameworks? - Tools like behavioral profiling or habit-tracking systems can make coaching more effective.
How do you measure progress and success? - A results-driven coach should have a clear method for tracking improvement beyond just how you "feel."
What kind of support do you offer between sessions? - Some coaches provide accountability check-ins, resources, or digital tools to help maintain progress.
Factors to Consider in Your Decision:
Compatibility: You should feel comfortable, understood, and supported by your coach.
Evidence-Based Methods: Look for someone who integrates scientific principles, behavioral psychology, and proven strategies rather than trendy, quick-fix solutions.
Track Record & Testimonials: Reviews or case studies can offer insight into their success with past clients.
Accountability & Structure: The best coaches provide clear, structured action plans that keep you motivated and progressing toward your goals.
Ultimately, a wellness coach should empower you with personalized tools and strategies that lead to sustainable improvements in your health and well-being, rather than offering a generic, one-size-fits-all approach.
