What to Expect in a Coaching Session

You hired a coach? Awesome! Now you’re asking yourself “What is going to happen in a coaching session?” 

That’s what I’m here to tell you – so you can go into a coaching session prepared and ready to get the most out of the time you have with your coach. 

First, it’s helpful if you have a topic identified to discuss with your coach before arriving at the session. Most coaches will go through a brief set of questions when beginning a coaching session that are geared toward clarifying the topic that you’d like to work on during the session and your goal of what you’d like to have completed by the end of the session. It’s helpful if you have some idea of what you’d like to discuss. 

When you arrive at the session, especially if you are stressed or frazzled – the coach may do a moment or two of “centering” or grounding. This is to help you release some stress so you can be present for the session and get the most out of the time with your coach. This may be similar to a guided meditation. If you feel self conscious, you can always turn off your camera (if you are meeting virtually) or keep your eyes open if closing your eyes feels uncomfortable for you – softening your gaze is a great option if you’re not comfortable closing your eyes.

The coaching session should feel like a safe space where you can express your needs, so if something isn’t comfortable for you, speak up and discuss it with your coach. Remember, coaching is a partnership between you and  your coach. It’s okay to speak up, ask for what you need from your coach. Coaching sessions are a safe space where it’s okay to assert your needs and feel heard/validated. There’s no reason to stress about a coaching session – coaches aim to provide a safe, judgment free zone to discuss whatever topic you would like to discuss.

The coach will ask open-ended questions that are designed to help you discern what may be standing in the way of something you’re looking to change, understand more fully or overcome. If there are moments of silence, that’s okay, too. Take your time to pause and reflect when answering the questions they present to you. You are in control of the session and the direction of the session. If you are unhappy or uncomfortable with the direction the session is taking, it’s okay to address it with your coach. The coach is there to partner with you and help you arrive at the goal you set forth for your session or coaching journey (some goals may take multiple sessions to move toward a larger goal).

At the end of the session, the coach will usually check in with you and reflect on insights from the session. They may also ask you what you learned and what action(s) you intend to take to move you closer to your goal in between sessions. Many times, a thought or question raised during a session could lead to insights between sessions. They may also ask you to do some additional work between sessions. This may include journaling, some thought-work or prioritizing a list of values that are most important to you. If you have questions about any of this, ask your coach. 

Coaching should feel like a supportive and safe space to share, explore and grow in your journey. 

If you’re interested in learning more about coaching, you may book a complimentary discovery session with me. I’m happy to answer any questions you may have about my coaching methods, training and tools available to use with clients.