The Principles and Approaches of Coaching
A coaching session is usually a conversation between a coach and client, or coachee, focused on helping the coachee discover their own answers.
Like other forms of individual and group support, coaching uses key principles and approaches to create the best space for clients and ensure the quality of each session.
THE GOLDEN PRINCIPLES OF COACHING
Coaching is founded on confidentiality and trust. It succeeds when coachees can discuss every aspect of an issue with their coach. The coach listens to stories, concerns and private information and keeps them confidential.
Solutions lie within the coachee. Coaching’s core belief is that people already possess the answers to their problems. Coaches ask suitable questions so clients reach their own conclusions. Useful observations or suggestions may come from the coach, but decisive answers usually come from the coachee.
There is no judgement or fixed route, but each session has a mutually agreed goal. Conversations are focused, equal, safe and free of criticism. Coachees identify goals for individual sessions and the longer term; coaches help them reach these through suitable paths and check throughout that they remain on track.
Coach and coachee are equal partners, regardless of relationships or hierarchies elsewhere in life or work. Coachees identify the actual problem; coaches use their skills to help address it.
Coaching looks to the future and next actions. Clients often seek better performance, career progress or life direction. Coaches may explore past experiences and decisions to clarify the route, but the most positive sessions end with an agreed list of actions.
Alongside these principles, coaches use different approaches to draw out subconscious awareness and help clients find their direction.
THE MAIN APPROACHES USED IN COACHING
Methods vary with the context, circumstances and client needs, but generally include:
Structured questions. Most coaching uses well-chosen questions, usually open-ended or specific questions drawing on subconscious awareness.
Active listening. Coaches attend closely to what clients say and how they say it, including small details. Emotionally charged words may convey passion, fear, excitement or anger. Body language and tone also matter. Mild words can carry deep implications about feelings and beliefs.
Summarising and reflecting back. Summarising all or part of the conversation gives the coach an overview of the client’s unwanted experience and helps clients understand how their behaviour may appear to others.
Checking in. Confirming sessions are going well and addressing client wishes is useful. Activities between sessions are common and do not make the coach a teacher; both parties simply recognise the value of structured reflection between meetings.
Understanding these principles and approaches helps determine whether coaching is right for your concern.
Me&We’s personalised life coaching packages help individuals remove inner barriers, uncover and develop potential, take charge of life and live happily in their chosen way.
Learn more here or email genies@meandwe.coach for programme details.
