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| Frequently Asked QuestionsThank you for your interest in exploring coaching. On this page, I answer the most commonly asked questions about what coaching is, how the process works, and what we can expect from each other. Why do I need a coach? Both casual and professional athletes have raw talent and drive to succeed. The difference is that the professional has something the other lacks: A coach who helps them hone their skills to a winning edge by keeping them focused and on track. It's the same for business and life in general. If you're having a hard time accomplishing your goals, chances are excellent that coaching can help. Sign up for an introductory coaching session by clicking the button at the bottom of this page. What is coaching? Coaching is a process that helps you achieve your goals. You’ll generally pick something specific that you want to accomplish within 90 days and begin exploring its importance, what’s holding you back, how you can get around your obstacles, and how to stay focused and make real progress. To do this, I’ll be asking you lots of questions to help you discover your own answers and will also offer suggestions and— occasionally—advice. You will then embark on the process of accomplishing your goal one step at a time, being sure to reward yourself as you progress. This is a two-way street. I can only help you to the extent that we can open up and confide in each other. It is therefore very important to establish and maintain mutual trust and rapport. I encourage my clients to share anything they are thinking or feeling that might be holding them back and I will do the same. Does coaching have any limitations? Yes. There are three important things you should keep in mind regarding coaching:
During our time together, we may move between coaching, consulting, and training. The exact mix depends entirely on your circumstances and comfort level. In many cases, business coaching clients tend to need more consulting and training than personal coaching clients. During our sessions, I will always let you know when we're shifting methods. At no time will I conduct any therapy. What is the difference between coaching and consulting? A coach helps you refine your strengths and transform your weaknesses into strength. You are—and remain—the expert in charge of finding your own answers and solutions. Your coach wins when you win and keep on winning. A consultant offers advice based on her or his expertise. This is great for quick answers but does not necessarily help you develop your own expertise. A consultant’s success comes from helping you make a decision without necessarily improving your decision-making ability. You are relying on the expert. Each approach has valid applications. I usually combine coaching and consulting when working with clients and inform them whenever we're switching methods. The actual mix depends on each client's unique needs. Are my secrets safe with you? They are as safe as you want them to be. I keep all client communications confidential. You are free to talk about your coaching experience however you like. If I see a possible networking opportunity between clients, I will ask everyone’s permission before giving out contact information. Will I have to leave my comfort zone? Maybe. Are you feeling uncomfortable or frustrated because you want or need to do something but can’t quite seem to get it done? If so, coaching can guide you into a new comfort zone in easy steps that celebrate every accomplishment. This minimizes discomfort and emphasizes the joy of self-discovery and empowerment. I will always ask your permission before asking a question I believe might be uncomfortable for you. I always ask these questions to stimulate growth, never to judge or demean you. You are never under any obligation to answer any specific question. If you ever feel uncomfortable, it’s important that you share this with me so that we can either explore this feeling or move on. When and where do we meet? We will meet by phone. I offer several coaching packages:
You are responsible for calling me at the agreed-on time and date and at the agreed-on telephone number. If you need to reschedule, please contact me at least 24 hours in advance by email or telephone. If you miss your appointment by more than 15 minutes, I cannot guarantee my availability. Can I make up a missed session? Absolutely. If you notify me 24 hours or more in advance, I'll gladly reschedule your session at no additional charge. If you do not notify me, I must bill for missed appointments because I reserve dedicated time for each client. In this case I must bill for the additional session. May I contact you between sessions if something comes up? Yes. Please feel free to email or call me between sessions if the need arises. Time permitting, I am always happy to answer occasional and brief questions. Need an ad-hoc session? No problem; I will schedule you as soon as possible. You will be billed for ad-hoc sessions at the start of the following month. How and when do you bill?
I accept payment via PayPal. Other arrangements are available on a case-by-case basis. Will coaching work for me? There's only way to find out. All new clients receive an introductory initial coaching session. This allows us to get to know each other and decide how to proceed. Are there any guarantees? Yes. I offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee. You have absolutely nothing to lose and everything to gain by signing up for coaching. Will I achieve my goals? That is entirely up to you. I will do all in my power to help you get where you want or need to go, but the ultimate choice and responsibility is yours. If you can’t accomplish your stated goal, we’ll work to discover what’s holding you back. That process can be very valuable. I know someone who could use some coaching. May I refer them to you? Of course. My greatest honor is seeing you thrive as a result of our time together. My second greatest honor is client referrals. You will receive one complimentary coaching session for every client you refer who receives at least two months of coaching. What's in it for you? Coaching is all about you and your wants and needs. My sole goal is to help you achieve your own greatness. I live for the "A-ha!" moments when clients discover some new insight or take a new step. Do you have any inspiring thoughts to share? I present you with this wonderful quote by Marianne Williamson, which sums up why most of us never achieve our fullest potential: &lquo;Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn't serve the world. There's nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we're liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” Do you have any questions for me? Just one. How can I help your light shine brightest? Why you should work with meHere is what some of my past clients have to say about me. Here is my story. |