Co-Creating the Coaching Relationship 201
Co-Creating the Coaching Relationship is the combination of three of the ICF’s core competencies. We have already explore the elements of Competency 3: Establishes and Maintains Agreements in session 14. Below you will find an overview of the other 2 competencies that help us co-create a solid coaching relationship with a client.
Cultivates Trust and Safety—Partners with the client to create a safe, supportive environment that allows the client to share freely. Maintains a relationship of mutual respect and trust.
1. Seeks to understand the client within their context which may include their identity, environment, experiences, values and beliefs
2. Demonstrates respect for the client’s identity, perceptions, style and language and adapts one’s coaching to the client
3. Acknowledges and respects the client’s unique talents, insights and work in the coaching process
4. Shows support, empathy and concern for the client
5. Acknowledges and supports the client’s expression of feelings, perceptions, concerns, beliefs and suggestions
6. Demonstrates openness and transparency as a way to display vulnerability and build trust with the client
Maintains Presence—Is fully conscious and present with the client, employing a style that is open, flexible, grounded and confident
1. Remains focused, observant, empathetic and responsive to the client
2. Demonstrates curiosity during the coaching process
3. Manages one’s emotions to stay present with the client
4. Demonstrates confidence in working with strong client emotions during the coaching process
5. Is comfortable working in a space of not knowing
6. Creates or allows space for silence, pause or reflection
https://coachfederation.org/core-competencies
This week, be ready to exercise your presence with your peer coach as you support them in the live practice session. Even though you will likely be paying attention to your area(s) of improvement from mentor coaching, make sure to focus most on your peer coach as your practice client–their work, their words and their experience.