All coaches have their own approach to working with clients. So, I thought that you would be interested in knowing how I coach, what I expect of my clients and what my clients can expect from me.
MY CLIENTS ARE ALREADY GREAT
I enjoy working with each one of my clients. They are all growing, successful and well and I am assisting them to further their personal and professional lives. Business issues are addressed with objective strategic vision and interpersonal sensitivity.
I EXPECT YOUR BEST
If you are working with me, then you’re probably ready to do and be your best. And if you aren’t doing your best, I’ll ask you to. If you can’t do that at that moment, I’ll understand and will do what you need to be heard, supported and helped back on track.
I WILL MAKE A DIRECT INQUIRY
From time to time, I’ll make a direct inquiry, like “Will you accomplish X by the end of the month?”. You may say yes, offer a different proposal (state what you can do) or say no (rare). I am there to support your success which ever way you respond.
I GIVE STRAIGHT ADVICE
If I am sure of the situation, and you are open to it, I’ll make specific suggestions on how to handle a problem or ‘go-for’ an opportunity. If I am not sure, I’ll say so. Regardless, use the best of what I say and use your own judgement. It is your decision.
I DON’T STEP OVER MUCH
When I hear a funny tone in your voice, or hear you say something that I just cannot ‘get’, I’ll ask you about it. Often, it is these small moments that offer the chance to resolve something. However, I don’t confront or wag fingers; I’ll merely invite you to look at something.
I MAY INTERRUPT YOU
Often, our patterns of behaviour show in our patterns of conversation. If I hear you stepping into a pattern of negative self-talk or something that appears to be the opposite of your desires, I will gently and compassionately step in.
I WILL LET YOU KNOW IF I HAVE AN INKLING
I will often get a ‘gut-feeling’ about something and will share it with you. If you feel that what I share hits the nail on the head, tell me. If I am off the mark, tell me.
I GIVE LOTS OF HOMEWORK
I usually ask that you come up with a goal, action or shift to work on between one session and the next. If it is too much, say so. If you want more, just ask.
YOU ARE EXPECTED TO USE ME, NOT DEPEND ON ME
As your coach, I am a resource and presence for you to use to your best advantage. I have an almost unlimited amount of compassion, strength and support for you and can share from a vast range of resources, distinctions and principles, which can increase your success and add quality to your life. And, I ask that my clients use me as the resource and friend that I am, but not let themselves get into the position of needing me or the coaching as a dependency thing or fix.
I AM NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR ACTIONS
I am not a clinical therapist of any kind and I do not take responsibility for any actions you may take as a result of your coaching or of my specialist input as a business consultant or Human Resources advisor.
I AM HERE
I want to hear it all. If you are having a challenge or struggle, are upset with something (even me or the coaching), are just starting to realise something big or can’t wait to share a win, call or email me. I want to know about it.
