Q&A with JB: Coaching

To support what you’re learning, I’ve compiled end-of-chapter Q&As that are full of real, thoughtful questions I’ve gotten over the years. In each one I share my unfiltered take on the challenges you’ll undoubtedly face as you grow your career.

You can check out all the Change Maker Q&As at www.changemakeracademy.com/questions.

This chapter’s questions include:

Q: You outlined seven coaching principles, and they all sound important. I’m feeling a little overwhelmed with what to do next. What do you recommend? (Answer: ~200 words)

Q: I find accountability to be a big part of why people hire coaches, but I think they also get frustrated when things don’t go their way. How do I balance holding clients accountable without sounding like I’m nagging or bothering them? (Answer: ~200 words)

Q: Clients are always giving me this vague goal of wanting to lose weight, which is great. But now that I know I’m supposed to ask more questions, where do I go from here? (Answer: ~300 words)

Q: What do you do when clients resist nearly everything you suggest? (Answer: ~200 words)

Q: Okay, let’s talk results. How do you track them? (Answer: ~225 words)

Q: Got any tips for clients who seem impatient or frustrated by plateaus? (Answer: ~175 words)

Q: I have a handful of clients who are just plain lazy. They simply don’t want to put in the work no matter what I try and how easy I make it for them. Now what? (Answer: ~575 words)

Q: Sometimes my clients have elaborate, and incorrect, theories on what works for them and what they should do next. How do I deal with that? (Answer: ~450 words)

Q: So you took a shot at the cheerleader types of coaches. I pride myself on being motivating and positive, and people tell me they like it. So you’re saying I shouldn’t be like that? (Answer: ~200 words)

Q: You want me to be silent sometimes? I’m supposed to have answers. (Answer: ~425 words)

Q: I’m very frustrated by people coming in and saying they want to try something they’ve seen on TV. Any advice? (Answer: ~200 words)

Q: My clients swear they’re “doing everything right” but I have my doubts. What can I do to challenge them without seeming adversarial? (Answer: ~125 words)