There are many tactics and tools to ensure and maintain accountability especially as we have seen such a strong shift to virtual spaces, such as, setting clear expectations using SMART Goals and leveraging technology. The ultimate key is always to institute effective communication strategies. Have regular check-ins with your team. Schedule frequent follow-ups to review progress and troubleshoot obstacles. Use tools like video calls or shared dashboards to maintain transparency. Incorporate reflective exercises, and have a continuous feedback loop. Encourage clients to keep journals or complete reflection templates after sessions. This fosters self-awareness and reinforces learning between meetings, and enhances direct accountability

In my coaching experience, reflective practices are the cornerstone of maintaining accountability, especially in virtual settings. My approach begins with helping clients identify and prioritize their core values, understand their significance, and explore the motivations behind them. From there, we assess available resources, define clear actions using SMART or SMARTER criteria, and address potential obstacles. By integrating self-reflection into each step, clients gain deeper awareness and ownership of their journey. While I also leverage digital tools for tracking and transparency, meaningful progress stems from this alignment between values, actions, and consistent reflection.

When it comes to accountability, there is absolutely no difference between physical, over the phone, and virtual coaching. What is the client committing to? What's meaningful about their commitment? How committed are they? If it's not a ten, what would make it a ten? How will they hold themselves accountable? What might get in the way? What support do they need?

I have used a similar accountability framework I use in Learning retention. It's called the 2x2x2 method. So after a coaching call/session, I'll schedule reminders to check-in 2 days after, 2 weeks after and 2 months after (assuming we haven't chatted again yet). It's those little coaching reminders that help our coaching clients remember what they learned/discovered and committed to in their goals. We forget what we don't actively recall often. A simple text message or email works fine. A reminder to commit to the takeaways aligned on. It can even be a short video message asking how they are doing with the new commitment.

To ensure accountability in virtual coaching, create a shared action plan with clear goals, deadlines, and visual progress tracking. Break down goals into smaller tasks with milestones, and celebrate small wins to keep clients motivated. Schedule regular check-ins, ask clients to self-assess progress, and provide actionable feedback. Use automated reminders and tools like project management apps to track deadlines. Encourage a growth mindset, framing challenges as opportunities for learning. Involve accountability partners or offer group coaching to add external support. Regularly review and adapt the plan based on progress to keep clients engaged and on track.