Questions & Answers

What is coaching?

The International Coach Federation defines coaching as, "partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential". Good coaches have been trained to listen, observe, ask thought-provoking questions, provide honest feedback and customize their approach to their specific clients needs.

Building rapport and establishing trust is critical. Coaching is a partnership. With executive coaching, Michelle works to assist you on your leadership journey and/or career direction by supporting, challenging, allowing you to share your thoughts and concerns and providing insights along the way. The individual can gain a better understanding of themselves, develop more confidence, identify options, think differently, try out new skills, and gain a greater sense of self worth and satisfaction.

How is coaching different from consulting?

Professional coaching is a distinct service focusing on the client, who is regarded as creative, resourceful and whole. A coach may work with clients to determine goals, create outcomes and manage personal change while keeping the client accountable to his own vision. Consultants, on the other hand, are retained to access specialized expertise. The assumption is that a consultant diagnoses problems, tells the client what to do and how to do it and may implement solutions.

How is coaching different from counseling?

Counseling addresses the past: healing pain, dysfunction and conflict within an individual or within relationships. Coaching is present-based, forward-moving, and future-focused, viewing clients as creative, resourceful, and whole, exploring what is possible for an individual, community, or business.

How do I determine if coaching is the right approach for me?

I firmly believe that coaching is an effective way to jump-start your personal and professional development. Having a learner's mind is the first step in your continuous learning journey. There's no time like the present to receive assistance to enhance your performance. Whether it's adapting to change, identifying your next career step or addressing performance challenges, my goal is to focus on you. The outcome you experience can be a more positive, clearer sense of direction and a new sense of fulfillment and vitality.

"The quality of a person's life is in direct proportion to their commitment to excellence, regardless of their chosen field of endeavor." Vince Lombardi

Are you ready to begin the coaching process?

A coaching engagement requires a commitment to the process, is an investment in time and a willingness to work hard. If you want to engage in this process be prepared to challenge your pre-conceived notions of yourself and be open to change.

How often would we meet for coaching?

Coaching engagements are tailored to meet your individual needs. That said, a minimum of 12 sessions is the usual course of action. Face-to-face meetings will usually occur at the outset, but many may subsequently choose to meet by telephone. Sessions can be weekly or bi-weekly and are typically an hour in length.