Celebrate even small steps together with your client, use storytelling to write / tell their success stories. This will help to reinforce a positive mindset and build trust in positive outcome and confidence. Clients who resist change may need more frequent acknowledgment to feel motivated.

I’d set small, achievable goals that gradually stretch their comfort zone, tracking indicators like openness to discussion, willingness to try new approaches, and shifts in mindset. Regular reflections and feedback sessions help identify incremental shifts in behavior and mindset, while journaling or progress logs allow them to see subtle changes, building self-awareness and motivation.

When coaching clients who resist change, it's crucial to implement a structured approach that emphasizes measurable progress. Break down their goals into specific, actionable steps, and regularly review these milestones to maintain motivation. This not only fosters accountability but also empowers clients by showcasing their growth, reinforcing the belief that they can navigate their career transitions successfully. As an immigrant advocate, I understand that recognizing small victories is vital in overcoming the psychological barriers of change, ultimately leading to resilience and transformation in their job search journey.

When coaching a client who resists change, setting specific, achievable goals and creating feedback loops can be instrumental in measuring progress and fostering gradual acceptance. Start by working with the client to identify small, realistic goals that align with their comfort level yet encourage forward movement. Break down each goal into manageable steps, which allows the client to see tangible progress without feeling overwhelmed. Incorporate regular feedback loops and brief check-ins after each session or milestone, to discuss what’s working, any obstacles, and how they’re feeling about the process. These loops create an ongoing dialogue, where both you and the client can assess and adjust strategies as needed showing progress is made

Resistance often eases through incremental steps. Document small changes, such as a shift in tone when discussing new ideas, openness to small adjustments, or trying a new task. Even a slight reduction in negative self-talk can signal progress. Encourage journaling or self-assessment exercises to capture their reflections on growth areas, frustrations, and breakthroughs. These insights can reveal progress in self-awareness, which is crucial for resisting clients. Especially with clients resistant to change, consistency in attending sessions, completing assigned tasks, or reflecting on experiences can be valuable indicators of progress, even if the outcomes aren’t immediate.