Dealing with a client who demands extra attention in coaching sessions. Can you set boundaries effectively?

Start by recognising and understanding your client’s need for extra attention. Explore the underlying reasons behind their requests, such as anxiety, lack of confidence, or a desire for more guidance. Acknowledging these needs shows empathy and helps you tailor your approach. By understanding their motivations, you can address the root causes more effectively while also considering how to meet their needs within the structure of your coaching relationship.

When a client demands extra attention, try to have a conversation with them. Find out the reasons that do that; it might be because it's hard for them to open up to someone else. Then, kindly but firmly reaffirm your boundaries. You need to show empathy so that your client wouldn't feel ashamed or attacked. If needed, you can readjust your coaching schedule with them.

?As a life coach I have observed this that some people in a group coaching scenario asks for extra attention, some people need extra attention and some people avoid extra attention. ?As a life coach our duty is to empower people by providing them what they need after explaining them why they need. ?In group coaching scenario, depending upon the time a life coach must give ample amount of time, attention and empower with knowledge to all the participants. ?In my PCHLC (Progressive Continuous Holistic Life Coaching) I make sure to clarify the primary objective of life coaching. ?Eventually it helps participants to understand that it is about learning and development and not about attention.

Clearly set expectations from the outset of your coaching relationship. Outline the structure, duration, and focus of each session, ensuring the client understands the limits of your time and attention. I like to include these in a Welcome Packet PDF document that I send clients at the very beginning of our coaching relationship. By establishing these boundaries early, you create a framework that respects both your and the client’s time. Revisit these expectations regularly, especially if the client begins to demand more attention, to reinforce the agreed-upon boundaries and keep the coaching process balanced and effective.

Communicating boundaries clearly and compassionately is key when a client demands extra attention. Let the client know that while you’re committed to their success, you must also maintain the agreed-upon structure of the sessions. Be firm but empathetic, explaining that these boundaries ensure that the coaching process remains effective for both of you. Reinforce that respecting these limits is essential for maintaining the quality and focus of the coaching relationship, helping them understand the importance of balance.

Communicating boundaries effectively both in a written fashion in the contract and also in the first session where you can help a client manage their expectations is very important. As a coach, you need to be gently assertive about the boundaries at all times. This helps the client understand what demands are appropriate and what are not. Establishing a win-win situation which satisfies both the client and the coach is possible only when the communication is clear.It is good to remind the client that the aim of the coaching is to provide them with tools to make them self-sufficient and to get them to trust themselves and their own judgements while navigating problems.

If a client needs more support than you can provide within regular sessions, offer additional resources. Suggest books, articles, or online tools that they can explore independently. You might also recommend supplementary services that align with their needs, like workshops or peer support groups. By providing these resources, you empower the client to take charge of their own growth while maintaining the boundaries of your coaching sessions. This approach supports their development without overextending your availability.

Regularly review the client’s progress to ensure their needs are being met within the established boundaries. Discuss how they’re feeling about the sessions and whether their concerns are being addressed. This check-in not only reinforces the importance of boundaries but also allows you to adjust the coaching plan if necessary. By showing that you’re committed to their progress while maintaining structure, you help the client stay focused and motivated within the agreed-upon framework of your coaching relationship.