How to Train as a Coach when Working Full Time

Have you ever wondered how people manage to train as a coach while juggling a full-time job, family, and everything else life throws their way?

In this episode, we explore one of the most common questions we hear:

How can I train as a coach when I already work full time?

We know from experience that most people who come to train with us are balancing busy lives, full-time jobs, caring responsibilities, and personal commitments. And yet, many find that their coaching qualification becomes the highlight of their week, a time to step into a space that’s entirely for them.

We talk about the practicalities, mindset, and support systems that make this possible. From flexible formats and payment options to honest conversations with employers, we share the approaches that have helped hundreds of learners succeed in training while working full time.

We discuss the range of formats available, including evening, morning, weekend, and self-guided options, and how learners find creative ways to integrate their studies into their lives. Whether it’s fitting in lessons during lunch breaks, listening to content while walking the dog, or negotiating time off work, there are countless routes to make it work.

Beyond logistics, we explore the mindset that makes the biggest difference. Training to be a coach isn’t only a professional investment, it’s a personal one. The moment you shift from asking “Am I ready?” to “How can I make this work?”, everything changes.

We share personal stories from our own coaching journeys, from completing qualifications with young children to navigating demanding roles, and the lessons that shaped how we now support others through this process.

We also talk about the value of employer sponsorship and how organisations increasingly recognise coaching as a way to develop culture, leadership and connection within teams. Many of our learners find that their organisations not only support them financially but also benefit from the ripple effects of their growth.

By the end of this episode, you’ll come away with practical tools, encouragement and the reassurance that training to be a coach while working full time isn’t only possible, it could be one of the most transformative decisions you ever make.

 

Timestamps:

• 00:01 – Why most trainee coaches balance learning with full-time work
• 00:57 – How life commitments coexist with coaching study
• 02:21 – Flexible learning formats that fit around your schedule
• 03:51 – Managing missed sessions and staying on track
• 04:17 – Payment options and accessibility
• 05:17 – Choosing the format that fits your energy and lifestyle
• 06:34 – Employer support and building a business case for funding
• 09:24 – The mindset shift that helps you commit and thrive
• 10:52 – Making coaching a personal priority
• 12:20 – Understanding the true time commitment
• 13:15 – Practising through triads and structured peer learning
• 14:44 – Why investing in coaching changes everything
• 15:37 – Finding time by changing perspective and routine
• 16:30 – Adapting your learning style for flexibility
• 17:00 – How to make your environment support your goal
• 18:51 – Role modelling lifelong learning for others
• 19:17 – Turning intention into reality and taking the next step

 

Key Lessons Learned:

• It’s entirely possible to train as a coach while working full time with the right mindset and structure.
• Flexibility in format and timing means coaching qualifications can fit around real life.
• Shifting your question from “Is it the right time?” to “How can I make it work?” changes everything.
• Employer sponsorship can create win–win outcome, for your growth and your organisation’s culture.
• Treating your coaching training as an act of self-investment fuels motivation and resilience.
• Clear time planning and communication at home and work are essential for success.
• Every learner’s journey is unique, there’s no single “perfect” way to do it.
• Training as a coach while working builds powerful habits of reflection and self-leadership.
• The return on investment goes far beyond career progression, it transforms how you think, feel and connect.
• Starting now often becomes the most impactful decision for your future self.

 

Keywords:

train as a coach while working full time, coaching qualification, coaching career development, flexible coaching training, online coaching courses UK, emotional coaching, mindset for success, accredited coaching programmes, coaching while employed, professional coach training,

 

Links & Resources:

• Take our Coaching Course Quiz – mycoachingcourse.com
• Explore Accredited Coaching Qualifications – igcompany.com
• Book a call – igcompany.com/ILM-call