How can you help your mentee become more empathetic as a Life Coach?

I always say treat persons the way you want to be treated was the position reversed. I believe that while empathy is a core competency for coaches it is not second nature and so must be taught. A good way to guide or mentor an aspiring coach is to conduct a compassionate index by presenting scenarios and allowing them to identify their core beliefs and limitations before they actually start coaching. Together we examine personal bias, beliefs, patterns, habits and personality types and styles to determine the points of intervention, renewal and new perspectives, adaptation and change.

One thing that I've found helpful when it comes to empathy is that it builds trust. My current and future clients need to feel that their coach truly understands them before they open up about deep desires, fears or struggles. Expressing empathy helps convey unconditional positive regard.

One of the greatest skills to have as a Life Coach is empathy. When a client feels safe they are more likely to share without feeling judged, which can help in their healing and forward movement. Empathy says, “I’ve been there and you are not alone.”

Longevity shows they have mastered core skills like listening with care, understanding perspectives, and offering wisdom. I would ensure that they've gone through training programs that match my own style. Politely ask to sit in on a session or two to see firsthand how gently and respectfully they interact with clients. Also discuss the specific ways they build trust, show compassion, and deeply grasp what others are feeling. Make sure you feel fully at ease with how they coach. By finding an ethical, caring mentor coach you click with, you’ll be best able to gain the same mastery and positive impact on others’ lives.

From my experience, schedule consultations for 45-60 minutes to discuss methodology for specific client cases. Tape record the mentor’s feedback so I can reference repeatedly. Role play sessions are another way to learn from a mentor. Practice coaching the mentor playing a sample client role, focused on empathy skills. Have them pause to give feedback when warranted. Exchange roles too.

I agree with this whole heartedly. Empathy takes practice for those who do not possess the skill. It takes working with clients, reviewing your coaching framework and asking other if they can see you as an empathtic coach.

Empathy allows you to “lean in to” the client. I have often worked with clients who started to shed tears during the first call. I invite clients, to “lean in to” that moment. I ask them to share what the tears mean to them while listening attentively. This opens up room for additional dialogue to those who have been longing for a listening ear. Empathy is powerful.

A mentee needs to know all questions are welcome. Having a calm and respectful demeanor allows the mentee to feel comfortable. The reassuring smile and tone is a great way to express genuine feelings about their growth and overall success.

Coached can measure their progress by the reactions and transformation of their clients. This goes back to coaching framework and tracking their clients progress.