Home
About Coaching
Coaching Questions
Getting Started
Jenny's Background
Martha Beck Says

How do we get started?

We start with an intro session to “get acquainted” and ensure a mutually comfortable coaching relationship. You will want to feel comfortable with the personal style and competence of me, the coach, and I, the coach, will want to be comfortable that you, the client, has realistic expectations of the facilitation relationship.

   

After the intro session, we set a time for the first session, which may be 90 minutes to two hours, to clarify the goals and desired outcomes. After that, we meet every two or three weeks, as it may take some time to implement the next steps we mutually define and agree to begin. Some clients continue for six months to a year, while others may achieve their desired outcomes in three or four months of sessions. We will close with a session where we discuss the results and areas of growth, and define an ongoing support system. 

How do we determine the intended outcomes for our coaching sessions?

The desired competency and overall purpose for the coaching relationship will be part of our initial discussion and agreement. We will want to choose observable outcomes that both the client and the coach can observe. Although a client may have a short-term goal they would like to accomplish, we normally establish a purpose and outcomes that will go beyond a goal. We focus on developing capability and competency at a more integrated and highly functioning level in whatever areas the client may choose.

How long will it take?

There is no standard answer for this, as it varies by individual. Some clients prefer to go faster than others, or are in a time of their lives when they are craving changes, so the answer is “it depends.” Clients are happiest with the results from coaching when they make a commitment for an appropriate amount of time. A lasting change for something significant will most likely take more than a single session; thus a longer commitment to the coaching relationship is more realistic.

What kind of support can I expect between coaching sessions?

It depends on what is needed or appropriate for the mutually agreed upon outcome as well as the definition of the coaching process. This can be tailored per client, and can be discussed at the initial “get acquainted” session. Email or short phone conversations between sessions may be included.

How much will I need to invest?

It all depends on what you want from the process and how fast you want to go. The fee structure can be priced by session, or within a total program designed for you. Some organizations prefer a custom number of sessions and specific forms of client follow-up. We will discuss specifics in more detail during the initial “get acquainted” session.