How to Coach Yourself and Others Techniques For Coaching | Page 387

does add a bright spot to their day. My personal goal is to send two
handwritten notes per week, or eight total for the month.
The most important thing to remember about contact is to practice it
on a regular and frequent basis. Not only will it make a difference in the
motivation and dedication levels of your clients, but it will keep your
coaching business fresh in their minds. Relationships die from neglect
and flourish with attention. Provide the exact attention your clients
need and you will not be easily forgotten.
Encouragement
How many people do you know who trudge through life each day with
very little encouragement from anyone? Do you receive the
encouragement you need? I think we all take for granted that the
person right next to us doesn’t really need anything. Yet I have
discovered that my clients and friends lap up encouragement like
thirsty puppies. We all need to hear that we are special, talented, fun,
kind and valuable. My most important role as a coach is to encourage
my clients, showing them that they possess the skills and abilities to
make the changes they desire. Encouragement causes people to
blossom and to truly begin to believe in themselves. To become an
encourager, practice the following:
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During each coaching call, tell your client 2–3 positive aspects you
see in his or her character (funny, kind, generous, organized,
adventurous).
Congratulate the client for each win experienced (changes made,
homework completed).
Send an encouraging e-mail 1 or 2 times a month.
Send each client a handwritten note 4 times per year.
Assume that all your clients receive zero encouragement or praise
and that they need it. Then praise them.
Don’t get too sappy. Be genuine.
Tell clients every year how much you appreciate their business.

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