FAQS

The International Coach Federation (ICF) defines coaching as partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential. The coach has the questions, the client has the answers. Even if they are buried deep inside, they are there. The coach and client partner to bring those answers to the surface, create go forward action plans and hold accountability.

Why hire a coach?

Defining goals, committing to change and taking forward action can sometimes feel overwhelming and daunting. Perhaps the “same old” approach isn’t working anymore and it feels like progress is stalled. Maybe there is uncertainty about where to start. Partnering with a coach provides a unique opportunity to define professional or personal goals, consider new perspectives and make a commitment to action to achieve those goals. A coach creates accountability to promote forward progress.

How do I get the most out of a coaching engagement?

Coaching engagements are most successful when the client is committed to the coaching process and has a willingness to explore new perspectives and new approaches. I recommend that the client consider discussion topics in advance of each coaching conversation to drive the agenda and allow for meaningful dialogue.

How do you work with your clients?

Through a process of reflection and self-discovery, I partner with clients to determine both what they want to do and who they need to be to achieve success. Clients are empowered to explore new opportunities to reach their fullest potential professionally or personally. Conversations take place in person, via phone or video conference. Coaching can focus on any area where a person wants to take action to transform, such as career advancement, career transition, goal achievement, fulfillment, overcoming limiting beliefs and balancing work and personal life.

What should I expect as a client?

Coaching will begin with a focus on identifying what is truly important to the client and their goals. The client gains clarity and direction as they establish what they want to achieve and how they will achieve it during the coaching engagement. We partner to determine the in-between steps the client will take toward their desired outcome. Coaching supports the client to strengthen his or her ability to overcome personal barriers or situational roadblocks to success. Throughout, the coach creates accountability for forward action. Confidentiality is essential to create a safe space for the client to share and will be discussed during the initial meeting.

How is consulting different than coaching?

A Consultant is an expert hired to share their expertise and provide solutions for the client. This is different than a Coach, who partners with the client to help them create their own solutions. There is a place for both, and people seek me out for my HR expertise as well as coaching support. I am able to play both roles, and will clearly differentiate between coaching and consulting during the engagement.