As the demand for professional and personal development continues to grow, coaching has emerged as a powerful tool to drive transformation in both individuals and organizations. But for many aspiring coaches, the certification path can seem complex and unclear. What does it take to become a certified coach? Which credentials truly matter? And how can a coaching certificate impact your career?
In the recent webinar Coach Certification Demystified: Everything You Need to Know, Jelena Solajic, Regional People and Culture Lead CEE & Baltic at EL PHARMA- PHOENIX group, addressed these very questions. Drawing from her expertise, she shared valuable insights into the coaching certification landscape, discussed the evolving role of coaching in today’s professional world, and explored how AI is shaping its future.
This blog distills the key takeaways from her session, offers practical advice for those considering certification, and clarifies the steps to kickstart a successful coaching career.
Jelena Solajic began by emphasizing the importance of structure in coaching, introducing the widely used GROW model, which helps define goals, assess current reality, explore options, and determine actions. She also discussed proactive coaching, emotional intelligence, and deeper listening levels as essential tools in effective coaching.
A standout segment focused on how AI is transforming coaching, with examples of chatbots already being used in some organizations to supplement human-led coaching. While she acknowledged the promise of AI-driven coaching, she also highlighted its limitations, particularly the lack of emotional nuance and intuition that human coaches strengths.
She concluded with her transformation through earning a professional coaching certification, highlighting its profound impact not only on her career but also on her self-awareness and confidence.
Jelena highlighted the GROW model as a foundational structure in the coach training webinar. It allows coaches to steer conversations effectively while allowing coaches to organically uncover their paths. Most coachees aren’t even aware they’re in a structured process; they just feel heard and guided.
Proactive coaching, on the other hand, is about being more intuitive and adaptive. Coaches must develop deep listening skills, pick up on verbal and non-verbal cues, and know when to lean into intuition. This especially matters in executive coaching webinars, where senior leaders present more complex challenges.
Jelena emphasized that effective coaching begins with self-awareness. Coaches need to recognize their own emotional triggers, biases, and blind spots before guiding others. In her professional coaching masterclass, she described this introspection as the most challenging yet empowering part of earning her coaching certification.
With coaching becoming more digitized, Jelena explored the emergence of online coaching certification webinars and AI-powered coaching tools. These tools bring scalability, real-time feedback, and data-driven insights, but lack human empathy and emotional intelligence.
While AI can enhance coaching by offering performance insights or supplementing sessions, it can't replicate the subtle art of interpreting silence or sensing an unspoken issue. This understanding is essential for those pursuing career coaching certificates or planning to offer professional coaching services in hybrid environments.
Not every coach benefits from the same approach. Jelena cautioned against applying a uniform method across teams. Instead, tailor your coaching techniques based on the individual’s needs and organizational context. For example, mid-level employees may thrive under internal coaching, while C-suite leaders might benefit more from external professionals.
This insight is vital for anyone considering how to get a coaching certificate and planning to build a diverse coaching portfolio.
A powerful takeaway from Jelena’s webinar was that coach certification programs aren’t just professional milestones, they’re personal growth journeys. Going through a coaching program helps professionals grow in empathy, communication, and confidence. The certification process isn't just about passing exams or reading books; it’s about evolving as a human being and leader.
Imagine an organization rolling out an online coaching certification webinar for its mid-level managers. After their certification, internal coaches are paired with AI chatbots for support. These chatbots provide real-time reminders, track progress, and offer suggestions based on analytics.
For example, a certified internal coach is working with a team leader struggling with time management. The coach uses the GROW model to explore challenges, while the AI tool pulls insights from the leader’s calendar data to suggest patterns and habits. The combination results in a tangible improvement in productivity.
Meanwhile, senior leaders are paired with external executive coaches, offering deeper emotional support and strategic guidance. Over time, the organization sees a measurable improvement in performance, engagement, and leadership alignment, demonstrating the power of blended coaching models.
The Certified Professional Coach (CPC) Certification by GSDC is designed to equip both aspiring and experienced coaches with globally recognized credentials, practical tools, and transformative coaching methodologies. Rooted in emotional intelligence, positive psychology, and solution-focused approaches, this certification empowers individuals to drive meaningful change across personal and professional domains.
By earning the CPC certification, you not only strengthen your credibility and refine your coaching capabilities but also align yourself with international coaching standards. Whether you're an HR professional, team leader, consultant, or entrepreneur, GSDC’s certification opens new career pathways, deepens client trust, and supports your evolution into a confident, ethical, and impactful coach.
Jelena Solajic’s coach training webinar reinforced that coaching is not just a skill—it's a mindset. Whether you're curious about how to get a coaching certificate, looking to elevate your leadership, or empower your team, investing in a professional coaching certification could be the most transformative step you take.
As coaching merges with technology and enters new professional spheres, the opportunity to lead change within yourself and your organization has never been more accessible.
Stay up-to-date with the latest news, trends, and resources in GSDC
1. How do I become a certified coach?
To become a certified coach, you typically need to complete a training program accredited by an organization like the ICF (International Coaching Federation). These programs include coursework, practical hours, mentoring, and a final assessment.
2. What is the best coach certification program?
The best program depends on your goals. If you're targeting leadership roles, look for executive coaching webinars or ICF-accredited programs. For broader applicability, online programs with blended learning are ideal.
3. How long does it take to earn a coaching certificate?
Most coaching certification programs range from 3 to 12 months, depending on intensity and format. Some fast-track options are available, especially in career coaching webinars or online formats.
4. Is coaching certification worth it?
Absolutely. Beyond the credential, it fosters self-awareness, builds empathy, and enables professionals to make a meaningful impact both personally and organizationally.
5. Can I get a coaching certificate online?
Yes. Many reputable organizations now offer online coaching certification webinars with flexible schedules, live sessions, and community support.
6. What are the benefits of a career coaching certificate?
A career coaching certificate equips you to help clients navigate transitions, develop leadership skills, and achieve career goals. It’s especially valuable in HR, L&D, or freelance consulting roles.
7. How does AI impact coaching careers?
AI enhances coaching scalability and offers data-driven insights. However, it cannot replace human empathy, intuition, and deep listening skills, making certified human coaches irreplaceable.
8. Who should attend a professional coaching masterclass?
Anyone aspiring to lead, manage teams, or mentor others will benefit. Whether you're in HR, sales, operations, or leadership, a professional coaching masterclass adds immense value.
9. What’s the difference between life coaching and executive coaching?
Life coaching focuses on personal development and wellbeing, while executive coaching addresses leadership performance, strategy, and team dynamics.
10. Can I start my own coaching practice after certification?
Yes! Many professionals use their coaching certification to launch private practices, offering services to individuals, startups, or even large enterprises.
If you like this read then make sure to check out our previous blogs: Cracking Onboarding Challenges: Fresher Success Unveiled
Not sure which certification to pursue? Our advisors will help you decide!