TIPS FOR COACHEES: PREPARING THE FIRST COACHING SESSION
Posted on March 22, 2023 by Rachel Thoms, One of Thousands of Career Coaches on Noomii.
With these 6 tips you are guaranteed to go into your first coaching session prepared, feeling confident and ready to get the maximum benefit from it.
You’ve taken the plunge & found yourself a coach. Congratulations!
Over the years I have received many questions and remarks from clients about the first coaching session. For some clients these questions cause uncertainty and for some the lack of clarity can even result in them waiting far too long before embarking on a coaching trajectory.
These six tips, gathered from my clients over the years, are designed to ensure that you are well prepared, feel confident, and, last but not least, well positioned to get the most out of the session.
Whether you are about to embark on career, stress & burnout, life coaching or another type of coaching, they are applicable.
1. SO HOW IMPORTANT ARE THE PRACTICALITIES?
Sure, you want to get stuck into the juicy stuff, but, yes, the practicalities are a fundamental topic on the agenda of your first coaching session. Discuss and agree with your coach the cost, number + frequency of sessions, which app you will be using and the location (on-line or in person or a mix of both). Also check whether your coach is contactable in between sessions as some coaches make themselves available via email or app.
2. IT’S ALL ABOUT CONNECTION
You’re about to build a new and valuable relationship. Perhaps one which will serve you for many years to come. This first meeting is about building connection. It’s a time for sharing your personal and professional history. The more context you can share, the better. You may feel reluctant to share too much in the first meeting. That’s ok. Share as much as you feel able. The rest will come in time. Making some notes about this prior can also be helpful for preparing your first coaching session.
3. BE LOUD AND CLEAR ON YOUR GOALS
Your goal (or goals) is the starting point for your coaching trajectory. Be as open and clear about your goal as you can, including the importance and meaning to you. A good coach will also ask lots of questions to ensure full clarity and alignment. You may well find that together with your coach you are able to sharpen further what you want to get out of your coaching sessions.
4. JUST BE YOURSELF
This may not feel easy. However, your coach is keen to meet you, the real you. This isn’t about putting on your best performance. It can well feel uncomfortable to acknowledge and share your talents and vulnerabilities with someone you’re still getting to know. Remember that everything you share with your coach is confidential and the more you share, the more you allow your coach to help you. Help your coach to help you!
5. DISCONNECT, DISCONNECT, DISCONNECT
It’s difficult to focus on your coaching session if you’re buzzzing from activities before the session or thinking about your to-dos after the session. Take time beforehand to disconnect so you can be relaxed and focused. Planning time afterwards is also helpful as this allows you to reflect and shift your mind before your next activity.
6. GET YOUR WORRIES ON THE TABLE
Starting a coaching trajectory, even if are a seasoned coachee, can be nerve-wracking. Stop any concerns or worries circling in your mind and get them out the way nice and early.
