Celebrate the Power of Coaching

As we conclude International Coaching Week (May 13-19), let us celebrate the remarkable world of coaching.

You may be wondering, "Coaching? Isn't that just someone telling me what to do?" On the contrary, the International Coaching Federation defines coaching as "partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential." It's akin to having a personal trainer for your mind, without the sweat and grunts of a gym session. However, just as a gym offers various professionals like trainers, nutritionists, and front desk staff, a coaching session may incorporate elements of counseling, consulting, and coaching itself.

I can’t record my coaching sessions, but here is what a coaching session could entail:

• An alumnus feeling discouraged after a prolonged job search expresses frustration and fear of not getting hired. The coach acknowledges these feelings, normalizes them by discussing the current economic climate and job search challenges, and collaborates with the client to determine the session's goal or agenda: updating their job search strategy (more clarity on this later).
• The coach inquires, "What would make this a successful coaching session for you today?" The client responds, "Leaving with a job." The coach gently clarifies that while they cannot guarantee a job within the hour, the goal is to identify the most significant area needing support in the job search process.
• The client explains their efforts, including cold-outreach networking, hundreds of resume submissions, and following job search advice, yet without securing interviews. The coach empathizes with the challenging job market and explores the client's expectations around the job search strategy (REMEMBER: the goal of the session is to update the most significant area of the job search strategy).
• From there, the coach may gently explore the job search strategy to provide perspective and reframe them more empoweringly (counseling element). The coach could also offer best practice tips on positioning and networking (consulting element). However, instead of merely instructing, the coach asks thought-provoking questions like, "What part of networking was most helpful?" and "What advice did you find beneficial?" (coaching element - helping the client find their own answers through self-reflection).
• Towards the end of the coaching session, the coach partners with the client to summarize key insights and learnings. The coach also facilitates the client in identifying specific actions to take after the session to move towards their goals. Finally, the coach manages the accountability process by asking how the client would like to be supported in following through on their action plan. This helps ensure the session leads to tangible progress for the client.
• By seamlessly integrating these three elements, the coach supports the client in healing from past rejection hurdles, gaining new insights and strategies, and ultimately developing an action plan they feel empowered to execute, unlocking their full potential for career success.

At the heart of coaching lies a safe space for self-discovery. However, it requires an open mind, willingness to receive feedback, and commitment to personal growth. Embrace discomfort, approach challenges with curiosity, and be prepared to put in the work. Your coach will guide, but lasting change demands that the client is ready to actively engage.

While coaching sessions may not make headlines or attract paparazzi, they offer something far more valuable – the opportunity for personal and professional transformation. Seek out a coach who resonates with you, and embark on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and transformation. Embrace the power of coaching to unlock your true potential and achieve the success you deserve.

Let me know what other coaching scenarios would be helpful!