Guys I spoke to you last time about the power of saying NO.
There are just some clients that you don't need.
Its the equivalent of receiving a well paid headache.
But it also got me thinking...
What to do if you have taken on the Client already?
You can't just get rid of them.
So lets break it down a little bit further and suggest some ways to salvage the relationship, and turn a negative back into a positive coaching relationship...
Win-Win or No Deal: The Golden Rule of Coaching
In the world of life coaching, the best business is always a win-win.
I have helped so many people to achieve and even exceed their own expectations its not even funny.
You can read about some of them in previous Articles.
But in the early days, I said yes to everybody. Dang.
Not a good move my people.
The wrong client can mean a world of worry for you.
It HAS to be win-win. It is the only way.
I told you last time, but for anybody who was sleeping on the previous episode;
What Does Win-Win Really Actually Mean?
It means that both you and your client walk away from every session feeling fulfilled, energized, and one step closer to your respective goals.
But here’s the catch: a win-win can only happen if your client is hungry for change and is coachable.
And as a coach, you need to be just as committed to their success as they are.
Now, you might be thinking,
“But Mike, isn’t it the client’s responsibility to be committed?”
Yes, but here’s the thing: your role as a coach is to inspire, motivate, and sometimes even push your clients beyond their comfort zones.
But, and this is a big but, you cannot be desperate.
Desperation leads to compromise, and compromise leads to a win-lose situation, where the client may win (temporarily), but you lose your integrity, your energy, and ultimately, your reputation.
I once worked with a client who was, to put it mildly, resistant to change.
They were set in their ways, and no amount of coaching seemed to break through their barriers.
I took them on in my younger days thinking that I could change the world.
But people need to want to change their world first...
I found myself working twice as hard as they were, trying to drag them towards success.
But in the end, I realized that I was more committed to their growth than they were.
This was not a win-win situation, it was a win-lose, with me on the losing end.
So, I made the difficult decision to end our coaching relationship. It was one of the best decisions I ever made. (At the time)
But looking back on it, also one of the worst.
Why?
Well they ended up slagging me off worse than some of my ex girlfriends.
SO if you have taken on board that nightmare client, here is what I would do...
Evaluate your current coaching relationships.
Are you more invested in your clients’ success than they are? If so, it might be time to have a candid conversation about their commitment level.
And then draw up a list of agreed actions on their part and on yours. Make SMART goals which the client needs to keep to.
If they do, then they will almost certainly make progress and your problem is over.
And if they don't well, then it's time to consider respectfully ending the relationship.
Here's a list of SMART goals and expectations that can help foster accountability in your coaching:
Client Expectations
Specific Commitments: Clients should commit to specific actions aligned with their goals. This could be attending sessions on time, completing assigned tasks, or practicing new habits regularly. These actions should be clearly defined and understood.
Measurable Progress Tracking: Clients are expected to track and report their progress. This could involve maintaining a journal, using goal-tracking apps, or providing regular updates during sessions to ensure they are moving towards their objectives.
Attainable Goal Setting: Clients should work with their coach to set realistic and achievable goals. These goals should be challenging but within their ability to complete, helping them stay motivated and on track.
Relevant Goal Alignment: Clients must ensure their goals align with their core values and broader life aspirations. This relevance helps maintain motivation and ensures the coaching process is meaningful.
Time-Bound Milestones: Clients should agree to deadlines and milestones, holding themselves accountable to the agreed timelines. Regularly reviewing these milestones during sessions helps keep the momentum going.
Coach Expectations
Clear Communication: As a coach, you should ensure that communication is clear, transparent, and consistent. This includes setting expectations for session agendas, follow-ups, and how feedback will be provided.
Active Listening: Practice active listening to understand the client’s needs deeply. This helps in tailoring bespoke coaching approaches and ensures that you are providing the most relevant guidance and support.
Accountability Framework: Establish a clear framework for accountability. This could involve creating a detailed action plan, setting regular check-ins, and using tools to track the client's progress.
Support and Encouragement: Provide constructive feedback and continuous encouragement. Celebrate small wins with the client and offer support when they encounter challenges. This fosters a positive coaching environment.
Adaptability and Flexibility: Be open to adjusting the coaching plan as needed. Sometimes, goals or strategies may need to be modified based on the client’s progress or unforeseen challenges, and your willingness to adapt will help maintain their trust and commitment.
These expectations set a strong foundation for a productive and accountable coaching relationship, ensuring both you and your client are aligned and working towards success
But this whole situation can be prevented anyway...
Before taking on a new client, ask yourself,
“Is this a win-win situation?”
If the answer is no, consider turning down the opportunity, even if it means passing up potential income.
Tip: Set clear expectations from the beginning. Make sure your clients understand that your coaching relationship is a partnership and that their commitment is crucial to their success.
It all begins with a thorough consultation.
And agreed actions from both parties.
Do this, and you save yourself issues and also take on clients who are far more likely to succeed.
And that's the essence of true win-win business.
Until next time friends, stay positive stay focused and stay filtering !
Desperation is never good business. But mutually agreed actions nearly always lead to success.
Yours, 💘
Michael Masters - The Info Architect.
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Helping you Master the Elements of Mindset, Coaching, Content Creation, Writing and Personal Branding.
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