When I first started my life coach training program, I had visions of renting a room in a co-sharing space or redecorating a small studio for my client sessions. There would be cozy chairs, cushy pillows, some candles and pretty art. It would be a beautiful, welcoming environment where you can be supported or clarify your life’s purpose.
During our training weekend, I was surprised to find out that life coaching was conducted over the phone. The lead and mentor coaches explained the benefits.
- The client doesn’t need to deal with traffic to meet with you.
- She can be in a comfortable and familiar environment (usually a calm spot in her home).
- It allows the client to be herself, to use only her voice to tell her stories.
The call feels more intimate. The coach can decipher emotion by just focusing on just her voice and its nuances. She knows when the energy has changed or a shift has happened. The coach is compelled to listen instead of being distracted by body language or the environment.
As a client, this might take some getting used to. Then again, it might bring back memories of long-ago phone conversations with best friends but today, the focus is all on you.
I wish my desk was as clean as this when I do my coaching calls but it’s way messier with more paper, a pile of books, a glass of water, my phone and headphones.
