WHAT IS A COACHING SESSION LIKE?

Coaching often begins with a brief “catch-up” on what has been happening in the life of the leader. This will include the leader’s experience with the learning activity s/he practiced since the previous session. The client will share what topic s/he would like to work on in today’s session. Usually, this will be one aspect of leadership within the goals set for the overall coaching engagement; sometimes, however, it may be an issue that the leader is facing presently, a “burning issue”. Through skilled questioning, empathetic listening, and a variety of specific coaching tools, the coach and leader progress toward the leader’s goals for growth. The coach will often check in during, and at the conclusion of, the session to make sure the leader is getting what s/he needs. Finally, the client and coach will co-create a learning activity for the client to complete before the next session.

HOW MANY SESSIONS WILL WE HAVE?

Coaching duration will be determined by the client and the coach, as coaching progresses. A coaching engagement will typically include a minimum of ten coaching sessions, in order to gain traction on the client’s coaching goals.

HOW OFTEN DO WE MEET?

Typically, coaching sessions are for one hour, every other week. For some clients, however, a thirty-minute session weekly is preferable.

WHAT ARE LEARNING ACTIVITES AND WHY ARE THEY IMPORTANT?

Learning Activities are the “homework” between coaching sessions. They are a crucial element in maximizing a leader’s investment in coaching. Through them, leaders exponentially increase their growth and ability to self-develop.

Learning Activities May Include:

• Self Observation

• Observing Others

• Books, Articles, Movies

• Research and Writing

• Practicing a Behavior

• Practicing a New Thought Habit

• Engaging Others (employees, peers, manager, other leaders)

• Any Activity That the Client and Coach Believe Will Advance the Leader's Growth

WHERE WILL WE MEET?

Coaching can happen at the client’s office, a conference room, the coach’s office, a coffee shop, a park, or anywhere that works well for client and coach. Coaching is also highly effective when sessions are held via Skype or the telephone. Many who are new to coaching may be doubtful about the efficacy of the latter approaches; however, they can be equally as effective as face-to-face coaching. What is most important is that the approach and venue be chosen by the coach and client together, and that they be in the best service of the client.