What are the tools and techniques for using a solution-focused coaching style?

1 The Miracle Question

One of the most common and powerful tools in solution-focused coaching is the miracle question. The miracle question is a hypothetical scenario that invites the client to imagine what their life would be like if their problem was solved overnight, without them knowing how it happened. The purpose of the miracle question is to help the client clarify their goals, visualize their preferred future, and identify the signs of progress and change. The miracle question can be adapted to different situations and contexts, depending on the client's needs and preferences. For example, you can ask the client to imagine what they would do differently, how they would feel, what others would notice, or what they would be proud of.

2 Scaling Questions

Another useful tool in solution-focused coaching is scaling questions. Scaling questions are questions that ask the client to rate something on a scale, usually from 0 to 10, where 0 represents the worst possible situation and 10 represents the best possible situation. Scaling questions can be used to measure the client's perception of their current situation, their confidence, their motivation, their satisfaction, or their progress. Scaling questions can help the client to acknowledge their achievements, identify their strengths, explore their options, and set realistic and achievable goals. For example, you can ask the client to rate their current level of confidence in a specific area, and then ask them what they are doing that makes them feel that way, what they could do to increase their confidence, or what would make them feel more confident.

3 Exception Questions

A third tool in solution-focused coaching is exception questions. Exception questions are questions that ask the client to recall or describe times when their problem was less severe, less frequent, or absent, or when they were able to cope better, solve a similar problem, or achieve a positive outcome. Exception questions can help the client to recognize their existing resources, skills, and strategies, and to discover new or alternative ways of dealing with their situation. Exception questions can also help the client to challenge their negative assumptions, beliefs, or generalizations, and to develop a more positive and optimistic mindset. For example, you can ask the client to tell you about a time when they felt more confident, motivated, or satisfied, and then ask them what they did differently, what helped them, or what they learned from that experience.

4 Compliments and Affirmations

A fourth technique in solution-focused coaching is compliments and affirmations. Compliments and affirmations are positive statements that acknowledge, appreciate, or praise the client's efforts, achievements, qualities, or potential. Compliments and affirmations can help the client to build their self-esteem, confidence, and motivation, and to reinforce their positive behaviors, actions, or changes. Compliments and affirmations can also help to create a supportive, respectful, and collaborative relationship between the coach and the client, and to foster a climate of trust, openness, and feedback. For example, you can compliment the client on their progress, their courage, their creativity, or their resilience, and affirm their strengths, values, or goals.

5 Future-Oriented Questions

A fifth technique in solution-focused coaching is future-oriented questions. Future-oriented questions are questions that ask the client to project themselves into the future and imagine what they want to achieve, how they want to feel, or what they want to change. Future-oriented questions can help the client to create a clear and compelling vision of their desired outcomes, to align their actions with their values and priorities, and to plan and prepare for the steps and challenges ahead. Future-oriented questions can also help the client to generate positive emotions, such as hope, excitement, or curiosity, and to activate their resources, such as their knowledge, skills, or network. For example, you can ask the client to describe what their ideal situation would look like, how they would celebrate their success, or what they would do differently in the future.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?