Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How does the coaching process work?
A. Having a coach means that you have someone to talk to who is 100% focused on you, your goals and your success. The main thing we will do is talk – nothing else! Our first conversations would focus on your goals and values, and as we get in to the coaching relationship, we would be deciding on regular tasks to take you towards your goals. I then check up on your progress, and this is where accountability comes in to force!! I give you feedback and encouragement on your progress and will talk to you frankly and realistically - so be prepared!!

Q. I’m interested in trying out coaching but I’m not sure what my goals are.
A. The purpose of coaching is to try and help you find your goals. Often after a number of sessions, you will realize things about your own values and aspirations that you hadn’t realized before. And surprise, surprise, there you find your goals.

Q. So what’s the first step towards getting a coach?
A. If you feel that you might benefit from coaching, I suggest you take part in a trial session first. If you feel you would like to proceed I would then do an introductory session in order to get to know your background, personal history, family commitments and future path. Most of all, I am keen to know if you are willing to commit to changing your life. If you decide to proceed then we would start with paid regular sessions for which I would expect you to pay a month in advance.

Q. My schedule is very irregular so I can’t commit to the same time slot every week.
A. That’s not a problem. You can schedule sessions to suit your working/lifestyle patterns. As long as I know two days in advance, sessions can be rescheduled.

Q. What if I decide that I no longer want or need to be coached?
A. No problem. If you felt that you needed coaching for three years I would be worried – this would suggest that you are getting too dependent on your coach! You are welcome to stop at any time, however I would request that you give me two weeks advance notice.

Q. I will be talking about work issues and the relationship with my boss. However, my company is paying for the coaching sessions. Will you report back to them?
A. No, no and no! Coaching is 100% confidential – no matter who is paying. I will not be making any kind of reports to your company nor anyone else. In no way whatsoever are the contents of any coaching conversation disclosed without your prior permission. As a result, I have a confidentiality agreement that I sign with all clients before the coaching relationship begins.

Q. How many sessions will I need to have?
A. There is no set answer to this question. Some people who might have a specific, short term goal would need fewer sessions whereas somebody else might be looking to make major changes in their life and career and would enter the coaching relationship for several months. In any case, you are free to end the relationship at any stage, for any reason.

Q. Will coaching take place face to face?
A. If the coaching is on a one to one basis, then I would normally do this over the telephone. I find it much easier and more efficient – it also helps to keep meetings on a regular basis, since coaching sessions can then take place anywhere. Let’s face it, most people can usually get to the phone for 30-45 minutes. However, for group sessions or coaching seminars, I tend to do these face to face.

Q. Do you offer any advice?
A. No. The basic premise of coaching is that the answer to your issues and the path to your goals are within you. My job is to help you establish your goals and then work towards them together.

Q. What subjects could I be coached on?
A. Coaching is an open page. If you have an issue you would like to talk through or take some action in a particular area of your life, then you have a subject to be coached on. Some coaching clients may have a large project they want to work towards and need to get on the right path. Some examples are: