Coaching Tips

1. Don’t start coaching a client until you have a working relationship with them.  The goal is to build a strong rapport with the client so that you are able to work together to clearly define goals, dreams, and solutions for both.
2. Avoid giving your client advice.  You want your client to be a part of the process of finding answers for themselves.  Once you start giving your client advice and suggestions you crossing over into the field of being a consultant.
3. If you are upset or frustrated you should delay or reschedule the coaching session so as not to take your mood out on your client.  This always works the other way.  If your client is overly upset try to calm them down in a reasonable amount of time.  If necessary you may have to cancel the coaching session and reschedule.
4. Always have a back-up plan.  There will be times when the plans you have made for a coaching session fall through due to one circumstance or another.  Be flexible and have a back-up plan waiting to take over.  This way you won’t be stumbling through a session and won’t appear unprepared.
5. Follow up after the coaching contract with the client is completed.  This will help you learn from mistakes and also will show your progress as a coach.  There is always something that you can learn from each and every client.  You should be flexible and always willing to consider alternatives to methods you are already using.  Following up with a client after the coaching contract is over is also a good way to obtain client referrals.
6. Admit when you don’t know the answer to a question.  It is important to be honest about your own failures.  You should be setting an example to your clients by showing them that even you need to seek answers.
7. Learn to ask for help from other coaches and co-workers if you need advice or assistance.  Networking with other coaches will help remain current with new coaching information as well as promote your business.
8. It is important to develop mentoring guidelines for you and any of your staff to follow.  These guidelines are in place to ensure that there is a certain standard that you expect to meet with each and every one of your clients.
9. Try to be available to clients during off-hours, either in person or by phone.  This will not only establish a strong relationship between you and the client, it will also help to build your reputation as a caring and conscientious coach.
10. Make sure that you are prepared for each coaching session.  This will be a reflection of your interest in the client and show your professionalism.
11. When coaching in a group session, be sure to acknowledge each person presence and thank them for their participation in the coaching session.  This encourages client’s to participate in the group when they might otherwise be reluctant to speak up.
12. Always make sure that your goal in a coaching session is to focus conversations on a specific task or goal to be accomplished.  This will give the client a sense of accomplishment.