What does NOBCO do exactly?
The NOBCO, or Netherlands Order of Professional Coaches, was established in 2003 with a clear mission: to improve and ensure the quality of coaching in the Netherlands. NOBCO sets quality requirements for affiliated coaches. If you work with a NOBCO coach, you can therefore expect them to work to ethical guidelines and keep developing.
What makes NOBCO even more special is its collaboration with the European Mentoring & Coaching Council (EMCC). This means the quality mark also aligns with European quality standards for coaching. For coaches, NOBCO membership is a great way to access a large network of peers, training, and continuing education.
And what does Noloc do?
Noloc is a professional organisation for career professionals in the Netherlands and has been around since 1986. This organisation supports job coaches, career advisors, and HR professionals focused on career and work-related guidance, helping them to continuously develop and improve their work.
A key part of Noloc is the certification of its members. Members must meet requirements regarding knowledge, skills and experience to carry the Noloc quality mark. For clients, this is an extra indication of quality. Noloc also plays an active role in monitoring labour market developments, such as sustainable employability and workforce mobility, so its members can respond effectively to these changes.
Why are NOBCO and Noloc so valuable for coaching and career guidance?
Whether you are a coach, career advisor, company or client, the quality marks from NOBCO and Noloc offer something to hold on to when choosing a professional. They indicate that a coach or career advisor meets requirements for training, experience and ethics. They do not replace a conversation: always ask about approach and experience.
Affiliated professionals generally keep their knowledge up to date through further training and peer consultation. Ask about this when you choose a coach or adviser.
The role of NOBCO and Noloc for companies
NOBCO and Noloc-registered professionals are also highly valuable for companies. In a tight labour market, it’s essential for employees to receive good support in their work and career. Certified coaches and career advisors contribute not only to employees' sustainable employability but also to their motivation and satisfaction. In time, that can contribute to the company’s productivity.
A good coach can also help improve team dynamics and strengthen communication between colleagues. Assessments such as ours are most valuable when a professional uses them carefully and can explain the results.
The added value for you as a client or employer
Why choose a NOBCO or Noloc-registered professional? Here are some good reasons:
- Quality requirements: Affiliated professionals meet requirements set by their professional association.
- Ethics: Both organisations maintain ethical guidelines.
- Development: Members are encouraged to keep developing.
- Network: Members have access to a network of peers, which supports knowledge sharing.
Assessments for coaches and career professionals
Coaches and career advisors can use our tests and assessments in their work. We help professionals choose an instrument and explain the reports. Also read How do you recognise a good coach? and types of coaching and guidance.
Conclusion
NOBCO and Noloc are valuable organisations within the Dutch coaching and career guidance field. Their certifications and quality standards ensure that you are working with a knowledgeable and reliable professional. Whether you are an employer or seeking personal guidance, a quality mark is a good starting point for judging whether a coach or career adviser suits you.
