There are a growing number of on-line directories of coaching services, freelance coaches and coaching companies which are searchable by the public.

Some of the best known include:

The Coach Referral Service - a directory provided by the International Coach Federation.

and the International Coach Federation list of credentialled members

The Coach Directory - provided by Coach U

Find a Coach - provided by the Coaches Training Institute

Find a Coach - provided by Coachville and currently being revised

Find a Coach - provided by the International Association of Coaching

Some directories focus on coaches with particular specialisms e.g. ADHD, Careers, etc.

Looking for a coach?

Some things to bear in mind:

• some directories have been developed and are maintained by coach training providers and list their graduates' services
• although a coaches services may be listed there is no explicit recommendation or indication of the quality of the coaching
• you need to be clear on the qualifications, credentials, experience, specialism and skills you are looking for when searching the listings
• if an entry is more visible due to length, position or amount of detail this may be because this is a paid/premium entry - rather than a recommended coaching provider
• the listings are one place from which to begin your research
• many coaches do list with their professional body or training provider as they value their training, membership or credentials and are proud to be associated with these bodies

Thinking about listing your coaching services on a directory?

Some things to bear in mind:

• is the style, feel and focus of the directory in line with your approach to coaching?
• is it easy for potential clients to find you on the directory and to contact you - for example, can you link to your website?
• who is the target market for the directory - are these the clients you aim to work with?  Consider your specialism/s and your location
• how is the directory advertised - is it easy for people to search and find on the web? How many people visit the site?
• what are other coaches' experience of using the directory?

Finally   ... online directories can be a great free resource if you do your homework - have a look around at what is available.

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