Working with challenging clients can be, well, a challenge! Sometimes people are challenging because they simply aren’t coachable at this moment, or perhaps I’m not the right coach for them. I have to honestly assess these situations and talk to my clients about such ideas.
Even a highly coachable client can be challenging at times. I set expectations up front to avoid problems and miscommunications later. My welcome packet contains information about the length of each session, the acceptable level of in-between session communication, the payment structure, and how coaching works, in general.
I’ve learned not to be afraid to make mistakes or admit that I don’t know everything. Even coaches are human! I am open and honest with my clients and respect their perspectives. These things set the groundwork for a good coaching relationship.
And when a relationship is at its natural end, or the client can’t benefit from the sessions, I admit it’s time to end the sessions. Coaching is a short process for an immediate goal. Once goals are met, clients move on.
