N.J. Some coaches take their assessment even further. KRW International, a top provider of executive development coaching services to Fortune 500 companies, conducts confidential interviews, not only with the coachee, but also with colleagues, superiors, friends, and family. We treat the coachee as a human being first, and as a business person second. However the coach sets about conducting the initial assessment, make certain that there is an assessment. If not, that's a pretty good sign of an inexperienced coach.
Many coaches ask for payment up-front.
This is perfectly appropriate and standard practice across the industry. Think of it as a retainer. If, on the other hand, the coach asks for a percentage of your salary growth, steer clear. This type of financial arrangement will poison the coaching relationship. Obviously, a coach who has a stake in your financial success will have less than pure motivations in giving you the right guidance.