EIA FAQ
Is it one level to fit all?
No, we distinguish between four levels of coach/mentor competence. This provides a clear development path for new coach/mentors and ensures good practice from individuals using coaching as part of a wider remit through to full time professional coaches. This also means that users/buyers can be clear about what level of experience is appropriate to their needs.
How do I know that your standards are meaningful?
The Competence Framework is developed from extensive research and consultation and has recently been updated. The richness of the detail distinguishes standards expected at different levels and also supports coach/mentors in their development.
Is this just for Executive Coaches?
Our Competence Framework identifies good practice in coaching/mentoring regardless of context. For example, disciplines such as executive, career, life and performance coaching are all embraced within the EMCC Competence Framework.
I’ve been coaching for years…do you expect me to go through loads of hoops now?
Because competent coaches/mentors may have developed in many ways, we welcome applications from individuals who have an EMCC EQA accredited training qualification and also those who have developed their competence in other ways. We recognise that what’s important is being able to demonstrate evidence of the Competence Framework for the level you are applying at.
How good is your assessment process – or is it a group of old boys making decisions about who gets accredited?
We are proud that our assessment process is reliable and robust. Applications are assessed, verified and moderated. All assessors are trained and their ability and competence creates greater rigour in the assessment process, making this the toughest and most reliable coach/mentor accreditation in the market place, providing credibility for you and confidence for users/buyers.
Is the assessment of my application kept confidential?
All applications are handled with strict confidentiality. All assessors have signed a confidentiality agreement with the EMCC.
How will you measure I’m working professionally?
In addition to evidence of your competence, EMCC place great importance on how the coach/mentor reflects on and applies learning from CPD, supervision, client feedback and ongoing practice. It is the quality of reflection, learning and its application that contributes to professional practice, so we demand this as well as measuring the length of experience, number of hours and clients.
How widely is EIA recognised?
This is the only award based on high European standards and these standards are recognised across the globe as well as Europe.
When can I apply?
You can apply at any time, though there are submission deadlines throughout the year. You can find details of them by clicking here.
How do I get started?
All you need is right here.
To start on your journey to accreditation, you will need to read the EIA Guide to Applying along with the Competence Framework which contain all the supporting information you need to complete your application. Then you can begin completing the EIA Application Form. (To download these documents please click here)
What will it cost?
The great value of EIA is its credibility in the market place. We take an independent approach and aim to raise the standards in the profession, we use a robust assessment process, comprehensive and high standards, trained assessors and rigorous quality checking. This means that the accreditation has real credibility in the market place and the price will reflect this independence and quality. You can download details of fees by clicking here.
What if I don’t have a relevant qualification?
You can still apply. We will just ask you to describe your knowledge and demonstrate how you apply this in your practice. You will be guided by referring to the Competence Framework at the level you are applying for.
How is accreditation different from a qualification? I’ve already got a qualification why do I need this?
The market place is becoming more demanding and buyers want to be confident about the quality of coaches they employ. Whereas a qualification indicates that at a point in time you had a certain level of competence, accreditation indicates not only this but also that:
- You can apply that competence in practice
- You have a successful track record with clients
- You work professionally through;
- - adhering to a code of ethics
- - continually developing your coaching through supervision, personal development and reflective practices
How will I know what level to apply for?
Read the EIA Guide to Applying, (you will find the Assessment Criteria for each level in here) along with the Competence Framework document. Taking an honest and open view of how you map against these criteria, should help you decide which level is appropriate for you to apply for. The four levels include Foundation, Practitioner, Senior Practitioner and Master Practitioner. The definitions given in the Competence Framework may also help you recognise the level appropriate for you.
What if I get stuck or need more information?
Then please contact:
Gaby Horsley
EIA EQA Product Manager - EMCC UK
UK.EIAEQAProductManager@emccouncil.org
