What you should expect from the coaching process

Entering into a coaching relationship can be intimidating; it can be overwhelming; it can be a source of anxiety; and it can also be the start of a revitalized career and personal life in which you feel challenged, fulfilled, and satisfied. Stepping outside of your comfort zone is never easy, but knowing what to expect, and what you will ultimately gain from the coaching process, can allay your worries and help you begin on secure, positive footing.

How will the process and the coach herself help facilitate your goals?

Expect:

An initial personal interview. During this interview, we will discuss what’s going on: what challenges are you facing? What opportunities are presenting themselves? What is most important for you to work on? What specific outcomes do you want to see? What do you expect from this process?
Subsequent coaching sessions. Now we get to work. Sessions are scheduled for a specific length of time, and can be done over the phone. Coaching does not, and should not, interfere with work — it is the work of integrating the ‘doing’ leadership with the ‘being’ of a leader
“Homework”. To ensure coaching sessions are as effective as possible, we might give you a few assignments. “Here is what we talked about today; think about that as you go through the week and see how you can incorporate those ideas into your work.” Then, at the next session, we will discuss how that went.
A customized approach. Through interaction and assessments, we can create greater self-awareness. You might realize you’re more skilled in one area than you thought; or you might realize you need to do some work in an area you thought you had covered. We can draw from a variety of concepts, principles, and models that will work for you in becoming more self-aware, open to new perspectives, and energized.
An appreciative approach. An appreciative approach focuses on what is right, rather than what is wrong. Unlike a deficiency model, this approach helps us focus on the positive, the goals, and the actions needed to get there. This is a discovery-based method, so be prepared for questions. We also take care to model effective communication and interpersonal skills that can transfer directly into your workday.
Results. Coaching delivers measurable results to individuals, teams and organizations. Coaching increases productivity, decision-making ability, communication skills, intra and interpersonal awareness, and confidence that result in a clear impact on business (IOB).

Expect to work. Expect to be challenged, to be supported, and to reach goals. Coaching isn’t about getting a yes-man or having someone else do the work for you; it’s about being as great as you can be.