Kitchener - World-class athletes at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing wouldn't have considered performing without a coach. Throughout the world of sports, one-on-one coaching is the recognized path to record-breaking achievement. And now, professional coaching is as accepted in Canada's executive suites as it is on the athletic field.

But how can you choose an executive coach who's right for you or your business?

"That's a great question." says Certified Executive Coach Cathy Shaughnessy. "Now that executive coaching has entered the mainstream, demand has grown year after year. But there's no formal credentialing requirement in Canada…so essentially, anyone can hang out a shingle and call themselves a coach." Shaughnessy suggests that executives follow these tips to help choose the coach who's right for them:

Ask for credentials. The International Coach Federation offers the only globally recognized, independent credentialing program and can also provide information on ICF accredited coaching training programs. ICF has more than 14,000 members in nearly 90 countries world-wide.

Talk to other clients. You will want to ask questions like these: What did the client gain from the coaching experience? What was the coach's style? How would you rate their professional conduct? What results did they achieve, over what time period?

Be clear about your goals. You will experience far greater results with any coach if you are willing to do your pre-work and your homework. Give some advance thought to what you are hoping to accomplish through coaching. What has drawn you to coaching at this time in your life or career? Where you want to be 30, 60 and 90 days from now? Any good coach is going to ask you these questions at the start, so be prepared.

Do a "gut check." Ask for an initial 30 minute phone consultation. Most coaches will provide this to you free of charge. Use this time to get a feel for the coach's style and approach. Take this opportunity to get some coaching and test-drive the process. This should give you a sense for whether or not this is a fit for you.

Do your "due diligence. Ask for client references, code of professional conduct, confidentiality procedures.

Ask about availability. Find out how many other clients the prospective coach works with on a regular basis. And be sure they have the time to devote to your relationship.

"Coaching is such a unique relationship," says Shaughnessy, "especially at the highest echelons of an organization. It may take time to find a coach who is right for you. And the only way to find out is to talk to several. Eventually you'll click with someone who also has the right skill set to help you."