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What Is A Discovery Session?

Updated: Mar 2

A coaching discovery session is an initial meeting between a coach and a potential client (individual, group or team) to explore whether coaching is a good fit for the client's needs and goals. It serves as an opportunity for both parties to understand each other’s expectations, assess compatibility, and determine if they want to move forward with a coaching relationship.




Key Objectives of a Coaching Discovery Session:


  1. Clarify Goals:

    • The coach helps the client articulate their goals, challenges, or areas they want to work on.

    • This gives the coach insight into the client’s priorities and aspirations.

  2. Understand Coaching:

    • The coach explains their approach, methodology, and what coaching entails.

    • The client gains clarity on how coaching differs from other forms of support, such as therapy or mentoring.

  3. Assess Fit:

    • Both parties assess whether the coach’s style aligns with the client’s preferences and needs.

    • This mutual evaluation ensures a productive and positive coaching relationship.

  4. Outline Expectations:

    • Discuss logistics like session frequency, duration, format (in-person, virtual), and fees.

    • Establish initial boundaries, confidentiality, and mutual responsibilities.

  5. Provide Value:

    • Many coaches use the discovery session to demonstrate their coaching style.

    • The client may leave with actionable insights, even if they decide not to proceed with coaching.

  6. Explore Motivation:

    • The session often includes questions to uncover the client’s deeper motivations and commitment to change.


What Happens in a Discovery Session?

A typical discovery session includes:

  • Introductions: Coach and client share background information.

  • Exploration: Open-ended questions about the client’s challenges, goals, and vision.

  • Coaching Demo (Optional): A brief coaching exercise to give the client a feel for the process.

  • Q&A: The client can ask questions about the coach’s experience, credentials, or approach.

  • Next Steps: If both parties agree to proceed, the coach outlines the next steps, such as signing a coaching agreement.


Benefits of a Discovery Session:

  1. Clients can explore coaching without a long-term commitment.

  2. Helps clients define what they want to achieve and how coaching can support them.

  3. Creates a foundation for an open and trusting relationship.

  4. Both coach and client can make a confident choice about working together.


Questions Coaches Might Ask in a Discovery Session:

  • What do you hope to achieve through coaching?

  • What challenges are you currently facing?

  • What’s motivating you to seek coaching now?

  • Have you worked with a coach before? If so, what was your experience?

  • How do you define success in this context?





 
 
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