How do you end or renew your coaching agreement with your client in a respectful and supportive way?

In my experience, it is very important to understand what the client is wanting out of the agreement. For example, what does the client want to achieve at the end of the term? The coach also has to set expectations as well by communicating clearly to the client (and outlining in the agreement) what is being offered and what they expect to provide to the client. This helps the client and the coach to walk together in the journey to reach the same goals that are beneficial to both parties.

Coaching agreements set expectations for the client right from the start. It is also a form of accountability. It's important to have clients sign a coaching contract before the start of their first visit to make sure everyone is on the same page.

Coaching agreements set expectations for the client right from the start. It is also a form of accountability. It's important to have clients sign a coaching contract before the start of their first visit to make sure everyone is on the same page.

An agreement also must include a disclaimer of what the limitations of the coach so that the client is clear of who they are working with account to their scope of expertise.

I see, that coaching agreement is not just a formality; it is the cornerstone of a successful coaching relationship. Imagine setting off on a road trip without a map—while it might be adventurous, it can lead to confusion and missed destinations. Similarly, a coaching agreement acts as a roadmap, clearly outlining the roles, responsibilities, and expectations for both the coach and the client. It ensures that both parties are on the same page regarding the scope, duration, fees, and confidentiality, providing a solid foundation for trust and mutual respect. By establishing clear boundaries and objectives from the outset, a coaching agreement paves the way for a focused and effective coaching journey.

Ending a coaching agreement can often be tricky but it doesn't have to be. There are many ways to end your agreement gracefully. For instance, you can coach your client out of their contract and into a referral that would suit them better. Remember to model how you would want them to end their contract and always approach it from a supportive place where you have their best interest at heart.

Renewing is easy if you've served your client to your highest power. In my practice it's a simple process of acknowledging that the client is coming to the end of their contract 2 visits before the term. I let them know that I'll be asking them on their next visit whether or not they would like to renew but tell them I don't need an answer today. On their last visit I ask them if they would like to continue working on x, y, z so they can get a, b, c. And then, stay silent until they give their answer. It's usually a "yes" but if it's a "no", I ask them "how they plan on achieving x, y, z moving forward?" I never push as they may come back and I always keep communication open with them after their contract has ended.

Renewal is a two way street. I agree that if the initial agreement is set up properly it will be easier for both parties to choose which path is best at the end. I’ve had long-term clients that felt complete and I have been grateful to lead them to being able to make that decision for themselves and gladly wished them well and let them know I was there for them if needed. It’s a win win situation.

Communication is something I include in our coaching contract and ask about upfront in our first session. I always let the client know the best ways to reach me outside of a coaching session. I also ask how they would like for me to handle the situation if they ever start showing up late to sessions or slacking in their coaching accountability. This opens doors to mitigate communication misunderstandings before they even start.