Coaching interviews, also known as “discovery calls,” are a key component of the iPEC Coach Training Program and an effective way to introduce prospective clients to the coaching experience. These complimentary sessions allow clients to explore what coaching is and how it could benefit them while helping you refine your skills in a real-world setting.
Purpose of Coaching Interviews
The main goals of coaching interviews are to:
- Offer prospective clients a taste of the coaching process.
- Practice your skills in conducting professional coaching sessions.
- Build confidence and familiarity with the structure of complimentary coaching sessions.
Key Requirements for Coaching Interviews
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Number of Sessions:
- Complete 10 coaching interviews as part of your training requirements.
- You are welcome and encouraged to complete additional sessions if desired. (Practice is how you achieve mastery!)
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Session Length:
- Sessions should be about 60 minutes in length.
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Clients:
- Conduct these sessions with individuals outside the iPEC program to gain practice working with diverse clients. Ideal participants include colleagues, potential clients and prospects, perhaps even acquaintances, friends, or friends of friends. Plan to coach those you believe you can maintain detached involvement from. For that reason, we don't recommend coaching those closest to you (immediate family, close friends).
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Logging:
- Log each session in the "Coaching Interviews" lesson in your "Post Module 1 Resources and Assignments" course. You will see an assignment titled "Log: Coaching Interviews". Log each session as you complete them. Submit the survey when all 10 sessions are complete.
- Log each session in the "Coaching Interviews" lesson in your "Post Module 1 Resources and Assignments" course. You will see an assignment titled "Log: Coaching Interviews". Log each session as you complete them. Submit the survey when all 10 sessions are complete.
Preparing for Coaching Interviews
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Identify Your Clients:
- Reach out to colleagues or prospective clients to invite them to participate in a complimentary coaching session. Explain that this is part of your training requirement.
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Review the Resources
- All resources to support your coaching interviews can be found in the Coaching Interviews lesson in the Post Module I Resources and Assignments Course. These include:
- Complimentary Coaching Script
- Sample Coaching Interview Audio
- All resources to support your coaching interviews can be found in the Coaching Interviews lesson in the Post Module I Resources and Assignments Course. These include:
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Set Expectations:
- Begin each session by creating a coaching agreement and establishing the client’s agenda.
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Use the Complimentary Coaching Script:
- Developed by Bruce D Schneider, the script provides a helpful structure for sessions, especially if your client is unfamiliar with coaching or unsure of what they want to discuss.
- Developed by Bruce D Schneider, the script provides a helpful structure for sessions, especially if your client is unfamiliar with coaching or unsure of what they want to discuss.
Why Coaching Interviews Are Valuable
Coaching interviews not only fulfill a training requirement but also serve as a powerful marketing tool:
- Client Attraction: These sessions introduce potential clients to coaching and can lead to future coaching relationships.
- Skill Development: Working with non-coaches exposes you to diverse client needs and scenarios, helping you refine your techniques.
Privacy and Client Information
- iPEC Policy: iPEC does not contact your coaching interview clients. Client information is stored securely and adheres to GDPR compliance.
- ICF Accreditation: If you plan to use these hours for ICF accreditation (ACC, MCC, or PCC), you must obtain explicit permission from your clients to share their contact details with the ICF.
Tips for Success
- Be Prepared: Use the Complimentary Coaching Script and listen to the sample interview for guidance.
- Set Clear Expectations: Provide clients with all necessary session details in advance.
- Log Your Sessions Promptly: Record each session in the Coaching Interviews Log on the Hub to ensure compliance.
- Practice Professionalism: Focus on creating a positive and engaging experience for your client.
Final Thoughts
Coaching interviews are a fantastic way to practice your skills and share the value of coaching with others. By completing these sessions with diverse clients, you’ll gain confidence, refine your approach, and build potential coaching relationships.
To access resources or for additional guidance, visit the Coaching Interviews lesson in the Post Module I Resources and Assignments Course in the Hub. Embrace this opportunity to expand your expertise and inspire others to experience the power of coaching!