When I am working with a new client, I often get asked what they can usefully do to get the most out of their coaching, so here are a few tips to help you get your coaching off to a good start.
Is my coach the right person for me?
I encourage you to test the chemistry with your coach before you start coaching.
A short introductory session to establish this, either face to face or telephone, can help you check that you’re happy to work with that person. Can you be open with them? Do you trust their skills? I often meet potential clients on a no obligation basis, and will help them find a different coach if I’m not the right person. Rapport and relationship are paramount.
Where should we meet?
Your coach will help you work out where’s best to meet in your area; somewhere private, comfortable and quiet works best. Getting away from your workplace is often helpful, but if you need to be in your work setting, it’s really important that you’re not going to be interrupted.
For a first session, you’ll need around a couple of hours as there’s a lot to cover; follow-up sessions can be slightly shorter. Coaching sessions work best with a little time for you after the session before gearing up to your normal work – to mull over what you’ve covered and initiate any actions while they’re fresh in your mind.
What shall I actually cover in a session?
It can be really helpful to think beforehand about what you’d most like to work on. Your coach doesn’t need to know unless there is any preparation you’d like them to do – maybe a document or web site you’d like them to look at. Don’t worry if you change your mind before or during a session; it’s your time to explore what’s most helpful for you, and your coach’s job to help you respond to that.
Can I bring personal ‘stuff’ into the sessions?
Of course. You go to work as a whole person, so your coach needs to support all the aspects of your life that you’d like to bring in. Personal issues can have a huge impact on your work performance, and vice versa, so both are equally valid in a coaching setting.
Should I take notes?
Totally up to you; it depends how you prefer to work. I often email my clients an aide-memoire of a session afterwards, but taking your own notes can help you to commit to what you’re going to do next. And saying things in your own words can be enormously powerful.
I hope this provides a few pointers, but, whatever your coaching question, you’re welcome to ask. We’ll be very happy to help!