10 Tips for Choosing the Right Gallup Strengths Coach

Choosing the right Gallup Strengths Coach is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your leadership development and the success of your team.

A skilled coach can help you unlock your potential, leverage your strengths, and create meaningful changes that drive performance and engagement. But with so many coaches to choose from, how can you be sure you're selecting the best one for your needs?  

To help you make an informed decision, here are 10 tips designed specifically for leaders seeking a Gallup Strengths Coach:  

1. Evaluate Their Credentials

Begin your search by confirming the coach is certified by Gallup. You can do this by checking our their coach directory. Certification ensures the coach has undergone rigorous training and understands the science behind strengths-based development. 

While there are many coaches who may claim expertise in strengths, a Gallup-certified coach has the backing of proven methodologies and tools.  

Here's the link to my profile in their directory. 

2. Consider Their Experience

Experience is key, especially when it comes to leadership and team development. Look for a coach who has worked with leaders or teams in similar industries or at comparable stages of growth. A coach with relevant experience will understand your challenges more deeply, whether you're navigating organizational change, fostering collaboration, or scaling a high-performing team.  

Ask about specific examples of how they've helped other leaders achieve results. Their ability to share relatable success stories can provide insight into their coaching effectiveness.  

3. Assess Their Coaching Style

Every coach has their unique style, from directive and structured to exploratory and reflective. Think about what resonates with you. Do you prefer a coach who provides clear action plans and accountability? Or do you thrive with someone who encourages self-discovery through open-ended questioning?  

Consider scheduling a consultation or discovery session to get a feel for their style. A good coach-client fit often comes down to compatibility in communication and approach.  

4. Request References  

Testimonials and case studies are great, but direct feedback from previous clients is invaluable. Request references from the coach to hear firsthand accounts of their impact. Ask specific questions about what it was like to work with the coach, the progress made, and whether they’d recommend the coach to others in similar situations.  

References can also help you gauge the coach’s reliability, professionalism, and ability to build lasting relationships.  

5. Clarify Their Specialisation

Coaches often have areas of focus, such as leadership development, team dynamics, career transitions, or organisational culture. Choosing a coach whose expertise aligns with your goals ensures they bring the right tools and strategies to the table.  

For leaders, a coach specialising in leadership development or team performance may be particularly beneficial. Their insight into managing diverse personalities and fostering collaboration can drive measurable results.  

My personal specialisms are in high performing teams and leading with more impact and confidence. Download my Gallup Strengths Coaching Price Guide here if you'd like more information in me becoming your Gallup Strengths Coach. 

6. Discuss Their Availability

Leaders have demanding schedules, so it’s crucial to find a coach who can accommodate your availability. Beyond scheduling, consider the level of access the coach provides. Do they offer support between sessions, such as email check-ins or on-demand calls for pressing issues?  

Understanding their commitment level ensures you’ll receive the ongoing guidance and support necessary to make consistent progress.  

7. Inquire About Their Coaching Approach

Different coaches use different frameworks and techniques to help clients achieve their goals. Some may offer true coaching whereas others offer more mentoring and guidance. Some offer support between sessions, others don't. 

Ask about how the coach structures sessions, defines success, and measures progress. Leaders often benefit from coaches who blend strategic planning with mindset shifts, helping you not only set goals but also overcome obstacles along the way.  

Ask your Coach what their strengths are and then look at the definitions to explore if this is a good match for you.

For transparency, my Top 5 Strengths are: Achiever, Relator, Strategic, Maximiser and Self-Assurance. 

8. Assess Their Communication Skills

Strong communication is the cornerstone of effective coaching. A great coach listens actively, asks insightful questions, and provides constructive feedback. They should also be able to distill complex concepts into actionable insights that resonate with you.  

During your initial conversations, pay attention to how well the coach engages with you. Do they truly listen, or do they seem to follow a script? Do they challenge your thinking in a way that feels motivating rather than critical?  

9. Evaluate Their Understanding of Gallup Strengths

A deep understanding of the Gallup StrengthsFinder assessment is non-negotiable. The coach should be able to interpret your results beyond the surface level, connecting your strengths to your leadership style, decision-making, and team dynamics.  

Ask about their experience working with teams or leaders using strengths-based strategies. The best coaches can help you turn your strengths into actionable strategies that drive individual and organisational success.  

10. Trust Your Instincts  

Finally, trust your gut. The right coach should feel like a trusted partner—someone who makes you feel comfortable, supported, and inspired. You should feel confident in their ability to help you grow while being open to honest feedback and constructive challenges.  

If something feels off during your initial conversations, it’s okay to keep searching. Coaching is an investment, and finding the right fit is worth the effort.  

WANT TO INVEST IN GALLUP STRENGTHS COACHING?

Hi there, I’m Mandy

As a Certified Gallup Strengths Coach & award-winning Leadership Mentor, I offer both individual coaching and team packages to UK-Based Businesses. 

If you're interested in working together, feel free to check out my offering here or download my free price guide, which explains more about my ethos, services and pricing.

I'd be delighted to help you and your team discover your unique brilliance and help you thrive.