How to Coach Yourself and Others Techniques For Coaching | Page 326

3.31 RESPECT
Coaches believe that it is necessary to build a strong relationship with a
coachee and that the relationship is based on the coachee’s needs. The
process of building the coaching relationship is coachee-focused, with
the coach serving the coachee. In the coachee-centered coaching
engagement, the coachee sets the agenda and direction. Yet, a coacheefocused approach does not mean “the client is always right.” Basically,
the coach is an equal partner in the coaching process.
The coach shows respect and builds rapport through being open
minded, empathic, accepting coachees as they are, mindfully listening,
reflecting and creating a general sense of trust and safety.
In the end, being coachee-centered means believing that with accurate
inquiries, the coachee can generate his or her own best solutions in an
environment of positive regard.
Some great ways of showing respect to the coachee, are:
1.

2.

Listen harder. We love when people listen to us, so we find it
safe to assume that other people love when we listen to them.

3.

Be considerate. Once you’ve listened, it’s time to act
accordingly. If there was anything about the persons tone of
voice or body language that gave a hint as to how they were
feeling, use that information in your interaction.

4.

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Asking permission: Ask them if they are interested BEFORE
you dive in and offer your advice. In your own words, try
saying something like: “I’ve got some experience with that.
Would you like me to share some insights I’ve discovered?”
You’ll find that 99% of the time they will say “Yes” and then
you know they are really listening. Asking permission builds
respect. Just make sure you then put the focus back onto them.

Keep your promise. By keeping your word to someone, you
not only establish yourself as a person of integrity, but make
the other person feel as though you value them.