A call to the masses
Brian Richardson is using mobile phone technology to offer banking services to those left behind by traditional lenders
Words of advice for hard times
Ben Goss's software company is helping financial institutions to dispense guidance
A taste for travel and piranha salad
Faced with exotic food and lack of exercise, resourceful travellers can still keep healthy
The right message for troubled times
Managers face the task of communicating some difficult decisions to an apprehensive workforce as the slowdown bites
Make a clean desk of it in 2009
Treat the cause rather than the symptoms if you want a tidier office this year
Pfizer chief's cure
In spite of restructuring, Jeff Kindler, boss of the world's largest pharmaceuticals company, does not rule out future acquisitions
The value of office gossip
The rumour mill does not have to be a destructive. Constructively harnessed, it can help manage worker expectations and even act as method of testing out new ideas
Gadgets for world-beaters
Financial Times writers asked busy business travellers about which devices they use to keep in touch around the globe
From geek to online guru
A dyslexic web designer, a call-centre operative and a single mother all had their fortunes changed thanks to their use of social networking websites
Prisons specialist steps out
A software provider to the Belfast security industry has been unlocking its potential after years of shunning publicity
Turbulent times ? patent opportunities
Ocean Tomo's success highlights the complex market for innovation functioning under the constraints of the credit crisis
India has drama in store
Shoppers in the subcontinent favour the colour and theatre of the bazaar over more minimalist western store designs, writes Amy Yee
Departing words of wisdom
The ideal farewell speech should be a subtle balance of humour, memories, reassurance and gratitude
Salvation from innovation
The septuagenarian president of Casio says that a surge in new products will see the company through any recession
Brewers need clear heads after awards
There is little time for celebration when sudden fame brings the placing of huge orders


or gain a better work/life balance. While you may well know what you should be doing, actually keeping up lifestyle changes is difficult at times. Coaching can help you identify exactly why you want to change, why earlier attempts may have faltered, and to view the process in a more positive way. Crucially the targets you set will be realistic so that your motivation and the benefits of change can be maintained.

Good relationships with those around you are very important to your sense of well being and satisfaction with life, but relationships can be difficult both at home and at work. However, this can improve with the help of coaching sessions. Talking through the issues will enable you to see how you can change to help resolve problems.

How can I find a life coach?

There is no professional body or any regulation in the Life Coaching industry. In theory anyone can set themselves up as a life coach with no formal training or experience. There are training courses available but no recognised qualifications. Therefore your own research and instinct will be the most important factors when looking for a life coach. The media, particularly the internet, and personal recommendation are likely to be your best sources of information.

Your choice of life coach will partly depend on your purpose. If you are looking for assistance with a particular area of your life, then you will want to research the experience and skill available in that area. For example, some coaches may be more effective working on family issues than changes at work. However, you may feel that personality and how the coach clicks with you are more important than any particular background. The way the coach asks questions, delivers constructive criticism and motivates their client is of course going to be vital to the success of the sessions. Also remember to consider whether you would like the option of face to face contact with your coach.

A good life coach will not ask for a large payment upfront. After the initial introductory conversation you should be allowed time so that you can be reasonably sure you have made the right choice. This works both ways as the coach will also want to be sure you will have a successful working partnership.

Can I become a life coach?

As a life coach you will need excellent communication and listening skills, a positive approach and the ability to encourage and motivate others. You must obviously enjoy working closely with people and also be flexible. More specific skills may be required if you choose to work in a particular area of life coaching.

Although there are currently no qualification requirements, you may well choose to undertake some form of training course before you start to practice life coaching. Training will develop your skills and is likely to give you more confidence and credibility. As there are no academic standards you will have to rely on your own research and evaluation to find an appropriate course. Your choice will depend on previous experience, and personal interest. Remember to ask about the cost of the course, time involved, support available and recommendations from previous students.

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Life Coaching is proving to be amazingly popular. Discover the latest thinking on life coaching from expert Charles Bentley PhD on his website www.lifecoachuk.com

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