Cathy Liska Establishing a Coaching Relationship
Building a strong partnership begins with a clear agreement between coach and client, and sometimes a sponsor. Establishing guidelines and ethics is paramount at this time. What the expectations are, the amount of time allotted, how information will be handled, the cost of coaching, and accountability are all addressed. This process sets the foundation. If a sponsor is involved, the person being coached is still considered the client.
 As a coach begins a new relationship with a client, understanding the many parts of a client’s life prove to be an asset. While coaching is about being specific and goal oriented, starting off with a big-picture exploration allows the wholeness of a client to show, assisting the coach and the client them self with understanding.
Understanding is key for several reasons. The first one is that it builds rapport. Additionally, it gives a coach opportunity comprehend who a client is in terms of values, interests, hurdles, and goals, which in turn generates powerful questions.
While being specific with accountability, the creative process which happens during a coaching session dips into the personal values and interests of each individual. Asking about these activities, interests, and people as part of an opening session gives a client an ability to immerse into untapped resources, ideas, and thoughts.
Examples of Questions:
- Where are you now?
- What do you want?
- What are your obstacles?
- What are your priorities?
- What are your resources?
- What do you hope to gain from the coaching sessions?
- How will you measure the success of the coaching relationship?
While a client sets the agenda for coaching sessions, this exploration and information will assist in building effective communication and focus.
