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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why should I join the Association for Coaching?
What does the AC have that other groups/associations may not have?
What is the AC’s position on training?
What is the AC’s position on accreditation?
What is course recognition?
Is the Association affiliated to other organisations?
Do I have the right training to be a member of the Association?

Membership FAQ

How do I become a member of the AC?
What benefits can I enjoy as a member?
Does membership to AC incorporate access to supervision/mentorship?
Do I have the right training to be a member of the Association?
What is the difference between Associate grade and Member grade?
What is a recognised course?
Can you recommend a coach training provider?
What responsibilities do I have as a member?
How can I get more involved with the AC?

What are the latest AC developments?

There has never been a better time to join the AC.

  • The Association for Coaching's website is going from strength to strength and is being seen as a valuable resource for the coaching community. In addition to an online members' directory, where more and more clients of coaching are going to find a coach or coach/training provider, there is also a very rich resource of tools, articles and publications.
  • We are delighted to announce that our evidence based coaching journal: Coaching: An International Journal of Theory, Research and Practice will be released in March 2008. This is a partnership between the AC and Routledge which will allow us to extend our reach internationally.
  • The Association for Coaching's first book, "Excellence in Coaching, the Industry Guide" published by Kogan Page is now on its third print run. We are pleased to announce that our second book "Psychometrics in Coaching" has been published. Our third AC book will be "Diversity in Coaching" and we will keep you informed of further developments about this.
  • Membership of the AC has grown and we now have representation in over 30 countries and the Association for Coaching is looking to expand further into these and other countries over the next few years.
  • The numbers of AC accredited coaches are continuing to grow, and the popularity of the AC Coach Mentor Supervisor calls is spreading, with 2 calls now running every month.

Why should I join the Association for Coaching?

The AC offers Coaches and Organisations involved in Coaching the opportunity to keep up-to-date on the latest developments within the field, to network and develop skills through our continuous professional development programmes, as well as a chance to shape the coaching world.

In addition, the Association adds a credibility factor through setting standards via its accreditation scheme and other programmes. There are a host of membership benefits, such as access to support through the co-coaching programmes and on-line forums. Members can also promote their services on the on-line directory.

The AC is an active body which is made up of a diverse membership base who share their views on what is best practice. This format is invaluable for helping to shape the industry into a reputable profession.

What does the AC have that other groups/associations may not have?

The Association for Coaching has drive, enthusiasm and a reputation for being proactive and professional. It is also responsive to the market’s and members’ needs for true member representation.

The AC holds regular CPD events throughout UK and Ireland.

One of our strengths is the leadership team on the Council, who volunteer their time, and who run the organisation with dedication and a coaching ethos.

This includes Chair Katherine Tulpa (recipient of an award for influencing the coaching profession), Vice Chair Alex Szabo, Heads of Departments: Jeannette Marshall, Leisha McKechnie, Gladeana McMahon, Darren Robson, Amanda Bouch, Carol Wilson, Angela Dunbar, Diana Hogbin-Mills, Nicola Russian, Oliver Johnston, Krishna De, Francois Moscovici and Sally Baxter – all respected coaching professionals within the field.

We have a well-qualified and experienced group of Vice Presidents, including Sir John Whitmore (recipient of an award for influencing the coaching profession), Marshall Goldsmith, Dr Anthony M Grant, Professor Cary L. Cooper, Lynn Macwhinnie, Gladeana McMahon, and Carol Wilson, and Honorary President Professor Stephen Palmer, who all actively support the AC’s vision.

What is the AC’s position on training?

The Association for Coaching believes that although there are a number of excellent existing coaches who may not have been formally trained, current developments in legislation and industry trends suggest that in the future the Coaching profession and those who employ its services will require individuals to receive formal training.

The Association is, therefore, interested and active in a variety of aspects related to training provision and standards in the UK and Worldwide, and sees part of its role as representing its members in future discussions and any decision making processes that may arise.

What is the AC’s position on accreditation?

The Association for Coaching supports Accreditation as a way of assisting the public and the purchasers of coaching services to identify effective coaches. If a Coach has taken the time and care to meet the criteria for coaching accreditation it should go a long way to demonstrating his or her commitment to client care.

Accreditation cannot eliminate bad practice totally but it does minimise the chances of it occurring, and used in conjunction with an effective Code of Ethics and Good Practice set of guidelines, and a Complaints procedure, the Association aims to limit its occurrence as far as possible.

What is course recognition?

Course recognition is currently only available for Foundation Skill Courses. This can be for a programme that trains Coaches or Managers, and one that has run for at least six months. Visit our website for further information about course recognition criteria.

The AC are keen to identify opportunities to enhance the quality, integrity and professional status of its course recognition programme, whilst providing our membership base with the opportunity to further differentiate their training programmes.

Is the Association affiliated to other organisations?

The Association for Coaching is an independent non-profit body.

The AC takes a very open approach and believes the success of moving the Coaching industry forward will be to work in collaboration with other professional organisations, coaching bodies, government institutions and parallel industries to share insights wherever possible. An example of this is working with other bodies at the coaching roundtable discussion and the reciprocal arrangement we have with the Special Group in Coaching Psychology for discounts at workshops and seminars.

The AC council has agreed on the criteria for appraising strategic relationships. The AC will proactively approach target organisations who we feel meet our criteria and provide clear benefits to the increasing sophistication and broadening requirements of our membership base.

Do I have the right training to be a member of the Association?

The Association for Coaching provides a scaled system of membership grades so that anyone interested in the field of Coaching has an opportunity to join the Association and benefit from those aspects which are most relevant to their grade of membership. For example if you have an interest in Coaching but no formal training you may want to join the association as an Affiliate and take advantage of the many AC events to come along and find out more about the profession. However, if you are an experienced coach who fulfils the membership criteria for full member or associate status you may also want to take advantage of the promotional opportunities such as the on-line Directory. The Association welcomes members at all levels and hopes to provide features and benefits suitable for all grades. Further information about the membership criteria can be found on the grading criteria document or the AC website. Each application is considered on a case by case basis.

Membership

How do I become a member of the AC?

Visit our website and go the membership section to download the relevant information or please email members@associationforcoaching.com for an e-membership pack.

What benefits can I enjoy as a member?

Individual members:

  • NEW for 2008: Receive twice a year by post a copy of Coaching: An International Journal of Theory, Research & Practice; the AC's international coaching journal, published in collaboration with Routledge.
    Gain new customers and referrals* - through your dedicated web page profile on the AC online membership directory.
  • Regular Seminars and Events - monthly workshops and forums across the UK on current relevant topics. This allows an opportunity to network, compare notes and gain knowledge from industry experts and colleagues. Members are entitled to discounts on attendance fees.
  • Accreditation** – eligible to apply for AC individual coach accreditation after being approved as a full AC Member for at least three months.
  • International AC Conference – attend the AC’s annual conference (at discounted rates) with international speakers drawn from top coaching experts and which provides an opportunity to network, compare best practice and share knowledge with other HR and coaching professionals.
  • Press/VIP contacts - raise the profile of coaching through PR activities, through the influential honorary board and contacts across the AC.
  • Member Newsletters - increase knowledge through sharing best practice and keeping abreast of the latest thinking and learning in the Quarterly AC Bulletin and AC Update.
  • Co-Coaching – Practice your coaching skills and learn through experience and observation at any of our many regional co-coaching forum groups
  • AC Forums - an opportunity to participate in the AC online forum – a networking and discussion group for members to share their news and views and receive advice and support from others.
    Industry/Market Research - gain first hand knowledge into latest industry trends via the AC’s market research reports.
  • Dedicated AC Website - gain access to up-to-date AC activities, members’ events, reference materials and members only section.
  • AC Logo/Letters* - add value to your service offering and build credibility through use of AC logo/letters in marketing materials.
  • Ongoing Professional Development - acquire CPD certificates through attendance at development forums, workshops and events and gain access to Organisational Development Guidelines.
    Improve Coaching skills - through special invitations to professional coaching courses and participation in workshops.
  • Networking Opportunities - enjoy networking opportunities to draw on the advice and experience of leading edge organisations that are also passionate about ethics, best practice and standards in the coaching profession.
  • Strategic Partnerships - receive member discounts, discounted training offers, and product and service deals through strategic partnerships.

*Associate level and above only ** Member level only
Each approved individual member will receive a member’s certificate with embossed seal.

Organisational members:

  • As above, as well as allowing up to three representatives to take advantage of the benefits and discounts as above (excluding directory and journal).
  • This also entitles you to submit a company logo in the online organisational directory without an additional charge.
  • Access to breakfast talks surrounding workplace coaching issues.
  • Internal Organisational Seminars/Think-tanks - participate in organisational seminars and exclusive think-tanks on subjects focused on understanding the needs of your organisation which will help develop and benefit your employees.
  • Access to a dedicated team of organisational coaches, who are open to sharing best practice and insights into specific workplace coaching requirements.
  • Identify professional Coaches and/or potential Associates that suit your hiring requirements through the AC’s membership online directory.

The Organisation will receive a member’s certificate with embossed seal.

Both Organisational and Individual members, are allowed to post/promote their services or workshops to other members on the AC Forum without a charge.

Does membership to AC incorporate access to supervision/mentorship?

The AC supports feedback on continuous professional development by way of our monthly CPD workshops/events and on-line forums where members share best practice. More specifically, in terms of the context of supervision, we have a successful co-coaching programme in place where members work in pairs and/or triads to gain feedback on ways of developing their coaching, in a safe and motivating environment; this is indeed a form of mentorship. Members have access to an on-line forum where coaches can share, exchange views and support one another. In addition, as part of the AC Accreditation process, individuals can participate in regular Coach Mentoring Supervision teleconference calls.
The calls are open to all levels of AC membership and the objectives are to provide a free coach mentoring/supervision service to AC members, a live forum where coaches may hear the experiences of other coaches, and share their own, and personal contact with an AC assessor for coaches who are applying for accreditation

Do I have the right training to be a member of the Association?

The Association for Coaching provides a scaled system of membership grades so that anyone interested in the field of Coaching has an opportunity to join the Association and benefit from those aspects which are most relevant to their grade of membership. For example if you have an interest in Coaching but no formal training you may want to join the association as an Affiliate and take advantage of the many AC events to come along and find out more about the profession. However, if you are an experienced coach who fulfils the membership criteria for full member or associate status you may also want to take advantage of the promotional opportunities such as the On-line Directory. The Association welcomes members at all levels and hopes to provide features and benefits suitable for all grades. Further information about the membership criteria can be found on the Website. Each application is considered on a case by case basis.

What is the difference between Affiliate, Associate and Member grade?

i) Affiliate:

£37.50 membership fee plus £10.00 one off registration fee
€55.00 membership fee plus €14.50 one off registration fee

For individuals with a general interest in the field of Coaching (note, concessions will be made for full-time students). Subscribers shall not be entitled to voter’s rights, have an entry on the AC’s on line directory, use any letters with their name, or use the Association’s mark. No references are required.

ii) Associate:

£60.00 membership fee plus £15.00 one off registration fee
€85.00 membership fee plus €21.50 one off registration fee

There are two options for entry to member level:

A) Experience only – no coaching qualifications:
For individuals who have experience of delivering individual/group coaching in either private practice or in a workplace setting. The AC requires a minimum of 75 hours of coaching delivery.

B) Experience combined with Training:
For individuals who have delivered a minimum of 40 hours of delivering individual/group coaching either in private practice or in a workplace setting, and who have undertaken a minimum of 35 hours training with a coach training provider. The AC requires a minimum of 40 hours of coaching delivery plus 35 hours of training.

Associate Members have the right to vote, have an entry on the AC’s on line directory. In addition they are entitled to use the letters AMAC with their name, along with the use of the Association’s mark.

There is a requirement to provide details of one professional and one personal referee. Please enclose a copy of your coaching qualification (if applicable) to support your application.

Your professional referee can be a tutor, colleague, client or someone who knows you in a professional capacity, and who has observed or benefited from your coaching skills, aptitude, abilities and professionalism in this area.

iii) Member:

£70.00 membership fee plus £20.00 one off registration fee
€100.00 membership fee plus €28.50 one off registration fee

There are three options for entry to member level:

A. Experience only – no coaching qualifications:
For individuals who have experience of delivering individual/group coaching in either private practice or in a workplace setting. The AC requires a minimum of 250 hours of coaching delivery.

B. Experience combined with Training:
For individuals who have delivered a minimum of 215 hours of individual/group coaching either in private practice or in a workplace setting, who have undertaken a minimum of 35 hours training with a coach training provider. The AC requires a minimum of 215 hours of coaching delivery plus 35 hours of training.

C. Training combined with Experience:
For individuals who have undertaken a minimum of 100 hours training (in coaching or coaching related disciplines), and who deliver individual/group coaching in either private practice or in a workplace setting. The AC requires a minimum of 100 hours of training plus 150 hours of coaching delivery.

Members have the right to vote, have an entry on the AC’s on line directory, along with the opportunity to get voted onto the Council. In addition they are entitled to use the letters MAC with their name, along with the use of the Association’s mark.

There is a requirement to provide details of one professional and one personal referee. Please enclose a copy of your coaching qualification to support your application along with a cv or individual profile.

Your professional referee can be a tutor, colleague, client or someone who knows you in a professional capacity, and who has observed or benefited from your coaching skills, aptitude, abilities and professionalism in this area.

What is a recognised course?

We are using recognised in a generic sense. Recognised course status is based on application demonstrating that the applicant member of the Association for Coaching meets the agreed training criteria. At this stage training does not have to come from a specific training company.

Can you recommend a coach training provider?

As the AC aims to remain an objective organisation, we are not in a position to “recommend” any training schools as we do not yet have a formal accreditation programme in place for training organisations or schools.

We do however, have training schools that have joined the AC as an Organisational Member. These organisations are marketing their services on our on-line directory alongside individual coaches and you may be able to access your requirements against their profiles. Some of these organisations have undertaken the AC Course Recognition scheme which ensures they adhere to specific criteria. Further details of this are available on the AC website www.associationforcoaching.com

We would also suggest that you come along to one of our AC events where you can talk to several Coaching Professionals, and ask about their specific experiences and recommendations of quality training providers.

What responsibilities do I have as a member?

Being a member of a professional body - the Association for Coaching – requires a commitment on your part to adhere to the Code of Ethics and Good Practice and to take out the necessary insurance.

How can I get more involved with the AC?

The success and growth of the AC is reliant on the strength of our members’ participation. We encourage the involvement of individuals and organisations in the coaching industry to participate in member driven projects and initiatives. As a professional and enabling body, the success of the AC is based upon its integrity, responsiveness and the building of strong and dedicated teams to fulfil this aim.

If you are interested in opportunities to become part of an AC development team, please register your interest on the AC Participation form or e-mail members@associationforcoaching.com to see where your professional support would be of value.