What happens during a coaching session?
At the beginning of the coaching relationship, specific goals are mutually established. We meet in person or on the phone weekly for one hour. The call begins by doing an update regarding your current situation, results from actions taken, and identifying any specific real time issues you are facing or want to work on. Our discussions will then revolve around these items with a thematic focus on the results and goals originally established. Specific tools and models will often be employed during the coaching session to assist you in gaining new perspective and awareness around your issues. Experiential exercises may also be employed including role play and homework may be agreed to.
During a coaching session, clients have the coach’s undivided attention. Clients may use the session as a place to address personal and professional issues they may not be able to talk openly about with their friends, spouse/partner, or colleagues. Together, the coach and client create a safe space where the client feels comfortable sharing and discussing feelings, thoughts and ideas without censoring them. The coach provides an unbiased, non-judgmental, outside perspective and listens beyond the client’s words. Through questions, observations, and intuition, the coach helps the client create awareness and clarity around issues presented.
You come to the session with some idea of what you want to focus on — typically an idea, question, challenge or decision that seems most pressing or has you blocked. I ask questions, listen, offer feedback, and brainstorm ideas with you. Typically each session ends with action items for you to complete before our next session. The International Coach Federation, of which I am a member, describes coaching skills that its members possess if youd like a more detailed description of what skills and techniques I use as a coach.
