DO YOU PASS THE TEST FOR BEING A GREAT COACHING CLIENT?

You’re probably asking yourself what kind of question is this? What does it mean to be a great coaching client, and why does it matter? Let me explain:

First, let’s be clear on what coaching really is:

Coaching is partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.

So it’s not a relationship where the Coach does all the work, or has the answers or gives advice.

And that’s where the “test” aspect comes in. You see, some folks hire a Coach thinking that the Coach does all the work in the relationship. That the Coach is the one with expertise or know how or smarts and that the person doing the hiring is just along for the ride, so to speak.

Nothing could be further from the truth.

A great coaching client needs to be ready to roll up their sleeves and do some digging. Some exploring and reflecting and be fully involved in a deep dive on their values and how that translates to the career and life and leadership choices they are making or wish to make in future.

So, when a prospective client contacts me and we have our first, preliminary conversation, I’m paying attention to their expectations. I have my own kind of test. I’m asking things like; What role do you see your Coach playing in this relationship? What level of responsibility are you prepared to take in moving your agenda forward?

You see, I love being a Coach because I get to work with amazing, dedicated clients who are seeking to better themselves. But my clients have to pass my test before I’ll agree to work with them!