How to choose your Product coach
If you're considering working with a Product coach, you're already taking an important step in investing in your career. A great coach can help you level up your skills, navigate career transitions, and tackle challenges with confidence. But how do you know which coach is the right fit for you? Use this checklist to guide your decision-making process.
1. What are my goals for coaching?
What specific challenges or areas do I want to work on (e.g., getting a promotion, transitioning into product management, building leadership skills)?
Do I have a clear end goal, or am I looking for clarity and direction?
2. Does the coach have relevant experience?
Have they worked in product management or coached people in similar roles?
Do they have a track record of helping clients achieve goals similar to mine?
3. What qualifications or credentials do they have?
Are they certified by a recognised coaching organization (e.g., ICF, EMCC)?
Do they have relevant academic or professional training in coaching, psychology, or related fields?
4. Do they follow ethical coaching practices?
Are they clear about confidentiality and boundaries?
Do they have a coaching agreement or contract outlining expectations, responsibilities, and policies?
Do they avoid making unrealistic promises or guarantees?
5. What’s their coaching style, and does it suit me?
Do they focus on mentoring, coaching, or a blend of both?
Do they seem supportive and approachable while still able to challenge me?
6. What methods and frameworks do they use?
Do they have a clear process for helping clients achieve results?
Are their methods evidence-based or tailored to the unique challenges of product management?
7. What results have they delivered for others?
Do they have testimonials, case studies, or examples of client successes?
Can they explain how they measure success in coaching?
8. How compatible are we on a personal level?
Do I feel comfortable sharing challenges and being vulnerable with this person?
Does their communication style resonate with me?
9. Do their values align with mine?
What principles guide their coaching (e.g., equity, kindness, curiosity)?
Do their values match what I’m looking for in a coach?
10. Are the logistics a good fit?
Does their schedule work with mine, and are sessions offered at convenient times?
Are they flexible with virtual or in-person options?
11. Is their pricing clear and within my budget?
Does their pricing feel reasonable for the value they provide?
Are there different package options to suit my needs?
12. Did I feel a connection during the discovery call?
Did I feel listened to and understood?
Do I trust their ability to help me achieve my goals?
Choosing a Product coach is a big step, and the right coach can make a huge difference in your career. By asking the right questions—about their experience, qualifications, ethics, style, and alignment with your goals—you’ll feel confident in making the best choice. A great coach will not only help you tackle immediate challenges but also empower you to achieve long-term success in product management and beyond.
Ready to explore how coaching can help you? Book a free discovery call today to discuss your goals and see if we’re the right fit. Let’s work together to unlock clarity and confidence in your Product career!
