What Makes a Great Coach? 7 Traits That Actually Matter (And 3 That Don’t)
Let’s get real for a second:
You don’t need to be perfect, certified, or have a huge audience to be a great coach.
But you do need to embody a few core traits if you want to lead people into meaningful transformation.
At I Love Coaching Co., we’ve worked with hundreds of new and experienced coaches, and we’ve seen what separates a struggling coach from a powerful one. Spoiler: it’s not what most people think.
Here are 7 traits that actually matter—and 3 that absolutely don’t.
The Traits That Matter
✅ Trait #1: You’ve Walked the Path
The best coaches aren’t experts in theory—they’re survivors of experience.
Great coaches have lived through the very thing they now help others navigate. You don’t need to be 10 years ahead, but you should be a few solid steps beyond the people you want to serve.
Need help defining your niche around your experience? Start here.
✅ Trait #2: You Ask Better Questions Than You Give Answers
Coaching isn’t advice-giving. It’s guided discovery.
Great coaches help clients think differently, not just do differently. If you can stay curious, dig deeper, and help clients uncover their own truth—you’ll stand out instantly.
✅ Trait #3: You’re Willing to Go First
Vulnerability isn’t a liability—it’s a leadership skill.
Coaches who are open about their story, struggles, and lessons create space for clients to be honest, too. And honesty is what creates transformation.
✅ Trait #4: You Show Up With Consistency
You don’t need to be charismatic. You need to be consistent.
The best coaches aren’t always the loudest—but they’re the ones who keep showing up with value, clarity, and structure. They follow through. They deliver.
✅ Trait #5: You Lead With Service, Not Ego
You’re here to serve—not impress.
That means showing up fully for your clients, putting their transformation above your insecurities, and being willing to challenge them with love when they need it.
✅ Trait #6: You Know Coaching Is a Business, Not Just a Calling
Great coaches don’t just have heart—they build systems.
They price for transformation, not time. They create offers that solve specific problems. They understand that if their business doesn’t work, their impact doesn’t scale.
Want help pricing with confidence? Read this next.
✅ Trait #7: You Invest in Your Own Growth
Whether it’s mentorship, training, or a community of like-minded coaches—great coaches stay in rooms where they’re challenged to expand.
Transformation flows best through those who are actively growing themselves.
What Doesn’t Actually Matter
Let’s cut through the noise. These traits don’t make or break your coaching success:
❌ Having a Certification
You can absolutely pursue one if it serves you. But your story, experience, and ability to create transformation? That’s your real credential.
Not convinced? Here’s why certifications won’t build your business.
❌ Being an Extrovert
Great coaching doesn’t require loudness—it requires presence. Quiet coaches can build thriving practices through intentional connection and depth.
❌ Having a Website or Funnel
Those can come later. You don’t need tech to get your first few clients. You need conversations, clarity, and confidence.
Learn how to start without them in this post
Final Thought
If you’ve been wondering whether you’re “qualified” to coach—stop.
The question isn’t: Am I ready to be a coach?
The real question is: Am I willing to lead with what I’ve lived through—and commit to growth along the way?
That’s what makes a great coach.
🔥 Want to grow into the coach you’re meant to be?
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