Coaching Session Design

A coach's job is to move the client from where they are now to where they want to be, and to do that in a way that allows the client to take the reins and direct the process. They do this however, within a structure and a process provided by the coach.

Each coaching session is unique. It is a partnership of the coach and the client and is impacted by the quality of the relationship; the context of the client’s challenge(s) and the individual traits of both the coach and the client that day.  Despite or maybe because of this unique quality, coaching requires a structure that will provide the framework for this professional conversation. This structure doesn’t override the uniqueness of the session, it simply provides a ‘coat hanger’ on which to hang your coaching work.

Sample Coaching Structure

The 6 step coaching process below has been shown as linear.  But, in reality, it can weave and whirl as the client moves towards their intention for the session. During this process the coach will help a client clarify their values, beliefs, feelings, perceptions and ideas, and will hold a safe space for them to identify their strengths, passions, knowledge and skills.  Opportunities for shifting limiting beliefs or reframing perspectives will be identified. The coach will be a sounding board for new ideas and the co-creator of goals, action plans, and accountability structures.  And, throughout the whole process they will be the clients number one supporter by acknowledging and encouraging their client.

1. Establish the Coaching Agreement
2. Set the goal or outcome for the session
3. Coach the client
4. Identify and commit to the action
5. Key outcomes and learning
6. Accountability

The Coaching Flow 

The coaching process relies on an interactive dialogue between coach and client; one that unearths a vision, a new idea or action from the client. Sometimes called the ‘coaching flow’. To give you a picture of what this flow looks like, think of a closet that has some light but also some areas where the light is not quite bright enough to see clearly. Imagine this is the coaching topic, situation or goal. While the client explores what they are looking for in the closet, there will be obvious ideas and awareness (those that are well lit) and there will be others that are not really clear or perhaps are overlooked or hidden due to the poor light (underlying beliefs, innovative ideas, and new ways of thinking).

The coach and the client work together to explore the closet – side by side – with the client moving the contents of the closet around, examining them and making choices about what will get them what they want. The coach then is holding a flashlight to guide and support the client in their search.