Typically clients seek to work with a Coach because they have a dilemma that they don’t think they can tackle alone.  Some examples of dilemmas are: a very complex decision, a goal that seems difficult to undertake or a dream that is always on client’s mind.  Clients find these predicaments daunting because of fear of failure, distorted thinking, not knowing where or how to begin, etc.

There are Coaches who are generalists and others that have very specific specialties (i.e., career, relationships, family, executive, small business, etc.).  In order for a Coaching relationship to be fruitful, both client and coach need to feel that they can work well together and that there is a comfort level.  In addition, dilemmas could involve very personal matters and a Client should trust the Coach in keeping all information very confidential.

There are several steps involved before a Coach and a Client begin an engagement.  Most Coaches offer an initial consultation which is beneficial to both parties.  The purpose of a consultation is for the Coach and the Client to get to know one another.  During the consultation, the Client could  describe what is on their mind and the Coach could explain his/her approach and style of Coaching.  If both parties feel they are compatible, then the Coach could suggest a specific engagement type that would be most suitable to the Client.

There are many variations in Coaching engagements.  A Client might feel comfortable with signing up for a short-term (i.e., 3 months) engagement that involves weekly sessions.  Another Client might have a strict deadline and need to engage in a Coaching relationship that meets more often and has a shorter duration.  A Client could also opt to just do individual sessions with no specific timeline or deadline.

Once the Coach and Client agree on the terms (timeline, price, etc.) of an engagement, a contract is signed by both parties.  Typically the very first Coaching session will be an initial Intake Session which involves gathering appropriate data from the Client to be able to set the relationship on the right track.  A Coach might use questionnaires or specific models to collect all the necessary information to start.  Coaching sessions are typically 45 minutes to 1 hour long and could be conducted in person, on the phone or via live video sessions.

During a session, the Coach will ask very thought provoking questions.  Questions are meant to surface Client’s thinking, feelings and most importantly inner wisdom.  Coaches should never be judgmental!  Through these questions, the Client is asked to dig deeper, challenge his/her thinking and actions and come up with personal insights that will facilitate tackling their dilemmas.  During the on-going sessions, a Coach could use models, assessments or other tools to further client’s thinking and progress.  A client might have action steps (homework) to complete in between sessions and might setup personal deadlines for completing these tasks.

An experienced and authentic Coach could be a thinking partner, sounding board, co-pilot, advocate, supporter or an unbiased challenger.  A Coach could shine a bright light on Client’s life, thinking, habits and fears to highlight inconsistencies or incompatibilities in Client’s life.

Before signing up for a Coaching engagement, Clients need to ensure that they have the time, energy and all the resources and support structure necessary to be able to focus during the sessions and also complete action items in between sessions.  Being a Client will require deep thinking, soul searching and at times answering very difficult questions.  Clients that are committed and determined will experience superior results.