How can you identify communication problems in personal coaching?

I know this is a short answer but implementing the “Speaker/Listener Technique has solved 99% of these issues quickly. Clarity is lost when both parties are talking over each other or crafting their answers while the other person is talking. Sooner than later this becomes talking over one another and then conflict. A solid technique is to take a moment of silence and back up to the last place of agreement. Assess where that is and start asking questions that require a collaborative approach to solving the problem. Nothing good happens when both sides are unclear of the others’ intentions.

In personal coaching, addressing communication challenges is pivotal, and as one of the key Dimensions of becoming Future Ready, the Clarified Purpose dimension becomes a guiding light. Lack of clarity, stemming from vague or inconsistent messages, hinders the coaching process. A clarified purpose, rooted in Future Ready Professionals' principles, brings specialized focus and value to communication. Techniques like paraphrasing, summarizing, open-ended questions, and feedback requests serve as invaluable tools. They ensure clear understanding and align with the essence of a Future Ready Professional. By navigating these challenges, coaches enhance the coaching journey, fostering effective communication and meaningful outcomes.

Vague, ambiguous, or inconsistent communication comes from discomfort. During coaching, this indicates the client lacks awareness or is emotionally avoidant. Returning their attention to the sensations in their body via deep breathing exercises resolves both issues, by raising self-awareness and normalising emotions. Generally the client experiences a sharp relief of tension that frees them up to communicate more freely.

This is where being part of a community of coaches can really help. Identifying a lack of rapport or chemistry is ideally something the coach can happen during the initial conversation while discussing goals with the client. The crucial aspect here is self-honesty in recognizing this dynamic. I recommend to gracefully acknowledge that you may not be the right coach for them and express a willingness to provide contact details for other coaches who may share a better connection with the client. Most people will appreciate your honesty and the kindness in recommending another coach.

As a Coach and Mentor, I have a different perspective. I don't typically provide direct feedback on a client's results. My approach is more about assisting clients in clarifying their goals and supporting them in their journey, rather than acting like a manager, teacher, or parent who monitors outcomes. It's important to respect that if a client decides to take a different path, it's their life and their choice. My focus is on encouraging clients to self-assess their progress and achievements. This helps them recognize their own growth. However, I refrain from offering personal opinions on their progress.

One way of identifying problem in communication between a Coach and their Client - is when the Coach "Lacks following up to observe and receive updates from Client about their concern. Furthermore, that if a Coach fails to follow-up - this makes the Client feel their concern is Not been fully attended to by the Coach, Thus: It is so very important for a Coach to "Not Neglect" Client management, because some issues that are "Deep-rooted" in Emotions will be unfortunately prolonged by Lacking Devotion of Follow-up.

I am new to coaching. As I complete my 100 hours of coaching to earn my ACC through ICF, I am learning the different ways to identify communication problems. The biggest one I am dealing with is rescheduling on the whim. This is an important sign that the client may need more time before being coached. One has to be truly ready for coaching.