Your client questions your coaching approach. How can you reassure them and build trust?

1 Listen Actively

When a client questions your coaching approach, the first step is to listen actively. This means fully concentrating on what they are saying, understanding their concerns, and responding thoughtfully. By showing that you value their input and are open to discussion, you create a collaborative atmosphere. This also allows you to understand the root of their skepticism, which may stem from past experiences or a lack of familiarity with your methods.

2 Explain Philosophy

After listening, it's important to explain the philosophy behind your coaching approach. Your explanation should be clear and jargon-free, highlighting how your methods align with their goals. This reassurance helps clients understand the 'why' behind your strategies and can alleviate any apprehensions. When clients see that there's a well-thought-out rationale guiding your actions, it can increase their confidence in your expertise.

3 Share Successes

Sharing stories of past successes is a powerful way to build trust. By providing examples of how your coaching approach has helped others achieve their goals, you offer tangible evidence of its effectiveness. Make sure to respect confidentiality while doing so. Success stories can inspire confidence and demonstrate that while the process may be challenging, the results are worth it.

4 Set Expectations

It's essential to set clear expectations about the coaching process, including the potential challenges and the commitment required. This transparency helps manage your client's expectations and prepares them for the journey ahead. When clients know what to expect, they are more likely to trust the process and stay engaged throughout their coaching experience.

5 Offer Support

Offering continuous support is key to reassuring clients and building trust. Let them know you're there to guide them every step of the way and that their success is your priority. Support can take many forms, from regular check-ins to providing resources or adjusting strategies as needed. When clients feel supported, they are more likely to be open to your coaching approach.

6 Encourage Feedback

Finally, encourage ongoing feedback from your client. This not only shows that you respect their opinion but also allows you to make real-time adjustments to your coaching strategy. Regular feedback helps create a dynamic and responsive coaching relationship where both parties are actively involved in the process. It's a sign of a healthy partnership and contributes greatly to building lasting trust.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?