Are you the right coach for me?
Since client and coach enter into an alliance and work together as a team, the relationship is very personal. I try to meet prospective clients in person and provide opportunities for them to experience my style. My
free introductory session is ideal for this.
I'm very serious about my coaching, and I continue to be amazed at the power of coaching when both client and coach commit fully to the process. My clients testify to the positive effect that my coaching has had in their lives.
What do you help your clients work on?
Some have very concrete, specific goals: "I want to change jobs" or "I need a Web site." Others have issues that seem abstract and deeply personal: "I want to make a contribution to society" or "I want more meaning in my life"; we need to translate these into something more specific, to develop quantifiable and reachable goals.
When I talk with a client about surface issues, it's interesting how often we discover underlying, deeper concerns. For example, anexecutive who came to me for help with her organization's structure found that while she loved the company, she was clearly in the wrong position. Now she's much happier working for a similar company in a different capacity.
Another client, a graphic artist, longed to start her own business but thought she lacked the essential skills. Through our work together she realized she was a natural businesswoman, and was able to overcome the lack of self-confidence that was really holding her back.
How often will we work together?
Weekly half-hour phone sessions are the engine of coaching. Over the course of the sessions, you'll gain a sense of control over the challenges you and your organization face, renewed enthusiasm for the potential of your work there, and the confidence to apply your values to your work.
How long does the coaching process take?
Most of my coaching projects last about six months. I do ask for an initial commitment of three months. This is not binding, but people need to know that it takes a while to make things happen.
I'm interested in helping people discover their own answers -- that takes time. It takes time, too, for more subtle shifts of personal style, goals, and perception to take root.
Can you coach my board or work group?
Yes, I also coach groups -- such as a fund-raising team or a nonprofit board -- using the same clarifying, goal-setting, action-plan strategy to help them move their organization forward. For example, my group coaching approach has energized fund-raising efforts and results for a Girl Scouts council.
A board retreat devoted to coaching can be a productive way to jump-start the process. This gives all board members a chance to focus their attention on the same issues. After that, my one-on-one coaching helps the designated leader follow through on the ideas raised and decisions reached at the retreat.
