You're questioning the value of virtual career coaching. How can you overcome skepticism and see results?

Bien mené, le coaching de carrière virtuel a de gros atouts et des gains de temps et d'énergie. Depuis une dizaine d'années que je le pratique je me suis aussi rendu compte qu'il était plut?t pratique pour les personnes réservées. Dans votre choix d'un coach de carrière virtuel, attention à ne pas confondre coach professionnel et consultant. En effet, le coach professionnel évite d'autant plus les projections qu'il ne conna?t pas votre métier et vous permet de trouver vos propres solutions. Le consultant a lui une expertise dans votre métier et vous amène pas à pas à trouver une solution. Le coach est un expert de l'humain qui vous aide à en comprendre les rouages pour réussir. Et il est supervisé afin de prendre du recul sur sa pratique.

To overcome skepticism about virtual career coaching and see results, start by evaluating the effectiveness of the technology and tools being used. Ensure that the platform facilitates clear communication and offers features that enhance the coaching experience. Focus on setting clear, actionable goals and maintaining regular, structured sessions to track progress. Embrace the flexibility and convenience of virtual coaching, which can provide access to a broader range of expertise and resources. Engage actively in the process, be open to feedback, and apply the strategies and insights gained during sessions.

Take advantage of the free discovery calls, or chemistry calls, that most coaches offer. This is a great opportunity to get to know the coach, find out more about their approach and experience, and how you could work together, with no strings attached. Importantly, it is also a chance to see if you like their energy as a person and feel comfortable and supported by them, as a strong, respectful coach-coachee relationship, where you feel supported but also challenged to make the changes that you need, is crucial.

Embracing technology is another key aspect of making virtual career coaching work for you. While the virtual format might initially feel impersonal, it also offers flexibility and access to a broader range of coaches and resources that might not be available locally. Familiarize yourself with the tools and platforms your coach uses, whether it’s Zoom, Google Meet, or a dedicated coaching app. Becoming comfortable with the technology allows you to focus more on the content of your sessions rather than the logistics, which can help build your confidence in the process.

For me what is important in virtual career coaching is to make the best use of technology. I always have video calls and I request that the client be in a well lighted area with a good mic. Also they have access to my whatsapp and during sessions, they can contact me by text anytime. Soon I am going to put in place a new tech that will give them access to my group sessions. I share my screen often during my video calls.

Taking quick and consistent actions after attending the live sessions or watching the recorded courses is vital. Also having an accountability partner from the community can be a game changer. It will help to follow through the tasks which need to be accomplished.

The coaching process should be dynamic, with regular check-ins on what’s working and what isn’t. Don’t be afraid to share your concerns or suggest adjustments if something isn’t resonating with you. A good coach will be open to adapting their approach to better meet your needs. This ongoing dialogue not only improves the effectiveness of your coaching but also helps to maintain your engagement and confidence in the virtual format.

Virtual coaching gives you opportunities traditional in-person coaching doesn't. - Opens up more diverse perspectives by connecting with a coach from a different culture - Flexibility to do it from anywhere, anytime, that suits time-crunched working moms - Great for more reserved or introverted clients who prefer to meet in a more familiar environment, like your own home. If you live in the same town, you can always meet up in person after a few virtual sessions. This makes it feel like you already know each other even before you meet up.

It’s important to consider the broader context of virtual career coaching. In today’s world, where remote work and virtual interactions are increasingly common, developing the ability to effectively communicate and learn in a virtual environment is itself a valuable skill. By successfully engaging in virtual coaching, you’re not only advancing your career but also honing your ability to thrive in a remote or hybrid work setting. This additional benefit can help you view virtual coaching as an integral part of your professional development rather than something to be skeptical of.