Decide what type of life coach you want to hire. There are general coaches as well as those who have a particular specialty. You may want help with financial planning, organizing your life or furthering your career and someone whose experience matches your desired area is more likely to help you achieve your goals.
Search locally or online for a life coach. You can achieve word of mouth referral from someone you know or begin searching online for a life coach in your area. Many advertise through websites or directories.
Learn about the credentials of your new potential mentor. Life coaching requires training and certification. There are associate level coaches (ACC), professional level coaches (PCC) and master level coaches (MCC). Each level reflects the type and quantity of training the mentor has had as well as the number of hours of experience the life coach has with training and mentoring clients.
Ask for a consultation. A consultation can help you understand what you might achieve as the result of mentoring from a life coach. It can also help you determine whether the potential coach is a good personality fit for you. Finding the right personality fit can impact your ability to change aspects of your life.
Inquire about rates and find out what the life coaching package includes. A life coach's credentials and experience level can impact the rate that they charge. Some coaches will do face-to-face meetings, unlimited e-mail support and regular telephone conversations for a set price. Compare pricing and be sure you understand exactly what services will be received for that cost.
Check references. The best way to determine the type of results that you can expect from choosing a life coach is to find out about their success with other clients.