A new coaching client recently asked me what she needed to do to get the most out of coaching. As a coach, I love this question! It tells me that the client is taking responsibility for her own learning. Yes!
Getting an awesome coach is a good starting point. Beyond that, there is a lot the client can to do to ensure great results. Here are 4 things to help you maximize your ROI from the coaching investment.
1. Do your homework.
One of the hallmarks of coaching is that it is focused on action. At the end of a session, you and your coach may co-create an action plan. This may be specific practices to develop a skill or habit, self-observations to become more aware of your habits or a specific action that will change your situation. Take these action commitments seriously. If you find yourself not able to or willing to take action on your homework, reflect on that. Make some notes for yourself so you can talk about this with your coach. Don’t be shy about telling your coach what happened. In coaching, we call this a breakdown. That word may sound negative, but it can be a great learning experience.
2. Show up prepared.
If you rush into your coaching session from another meeting without any thought to what's happened since your previous coaching session, you may find it more difficult to get the full value of your coaching. Take time before your session to reflect on your homework. Think about what’s changed in the areas you're working on. And last and most importantly, give some thought to what you would like to focus on in the session.
3. Be fully present.
Multitasking during a coaching session isn't going to serve you. Whether you are on the phone or in person, find a private space where you won't be disturbed and remove any distractions like beeps and buzzes that announce email. Take a minute to center yourself and get fully present before your call. Here are some resources for simple centering practices.
4. Embrace vulnerability as part of the coaching process.
Coaching is about learning and growing. These things don't happen at a deep level without most of us feeling some vulnerability. Grant your coach as much trust as you can and be as open and vulnerable with her as you can be. It will serve your learning well.
As a coach, I’m also doing these things. I can't just jump on the call with a client, have a conversation and call that good coaching. I also need to prepare, be fully present, and accept my own vulnerability.
Coaching is a journey of learning and growth for both coach and client. The coach is always focused on doing what serves your learning and in turn, that invokes the coach’s learning.
Coaching can be a powerful boost for your leadership. If you’d like to talk about what you aspire to, email me for a complementary consult.
If you’re a coach and want to do more powerful coaching or have more clients, I’d love to support you. Check out these options, and reach out to me when you’re ready.