One Minute Mentor Tips

Encapsulating in the coaching session

Reflective listening is a key skill in coaching, and its primary purpose is to capture the essence and emotion of what the client shares - not to repeat verbatim. We want to express the essential situation succinctly. In other words, we want to encapsulate what the client has shared paying more attention to the perspective or mindset that has the client stuck than the story or situation. The benefits of such reflection include staying out of the story from the very response by the coach, establishing rapport and trust, making the client feel heard and understood, and opening opportunities for discussion. Reflection also serves to confirm that both the coach and the client are on the same page.

When reflecting, the coach interprets the client's information, offering their own understanding, observation, gist, or theme. This interpretation is not declared as an absolute truth but is presented as the coach's perspective. It's crucial to own these observations and invite the client's feedback by incorporating questions like, "It seems there's a feeling of being betrayed by your boss. What's true about that?"

Reflection helps create clarity about the client's situation, preventing the coach from taking the wrong coaching path, making assumptions, imposing their agenda, or causing a disconnect. After providing a reflection, it's essential to include a brief question, allowing the client to respond and correct any inaccuracies.

The goal of reflective listening is to convey understanding of the client's values, characteristics, or emotions. Striking a balance between ensuring the client feels heard and offering the coach's interpretation without delving too deeply into the client's story is crucial. This approach contributes to a coaching environment where the client feels understood and supported.

Confusing Competencies?

I was recently asked what the difference between ICF core competencies 2 is Embodies and Coaching Mindset and 5 Maintains Presence.

ICF Core Competency 2, "Embodies a Coaching Mindset," focuses on the coach's overall approach and mindset during coaching sessions. It involves cultivating a coaching presence that is open, flexible, and client-centered. This competency emphasizes the coach's ability to create a safe and supportive environment, demonstrating curiosity, empathy, and a non-judgmental attitude.

On the other hand, Core Competency 5, "Maintains Presence," specifically addresses the coach's ability to be fully attentive and present in the moment during coaching sessions. It involves being aware of both the verbal and non-verbal cues of the client, staying focused on the client's agenda, and managing one's own distractions or biases.

So, while Core Competency 2 is about embodying a coaching mindset throughout the coaching relationship, Core Competency 5 is about the coach's presence and attentiveness during individual sessions. Both competencies contribute to effective coaching by fostering a positive and focused interaction between the coach and the client.

MASTERFUL COACHING - CHEAT SHEET

Want this handy infographic? Just email me at [email protected]

Opinions Welcome

I am researching an article on how coaching might be different on the new digital coaching platforms. Here's my questions:
What are the differences in your coach approach vs coaching clients you find yourself?
What level of understanding do clients have and what are their expectations of you as a coach?
What are the challenges regarding adhering to the ICF core competencies or the expectation that "evidence-based" means always getting a result.

Please email or message me at [email protected] with your thoughts and experience. Thanks!