On Feeling Prepared

The words a coaching client shared with me at the close of a recent session

We had been focusing on preparing my client to initiate and hold a difficult conversation he’d been putting off but knew he needed to have. This type of conversation would be a first for him.

We worked on how to express his rather serious concerns and give feedback upward, clearly and directly. The goal was to ensure the feedback could be heard—a necessary first step for the recipient if he were to take action to make change.

We discussed the most appropriate forum for the meeting, taking into account my client’s role on the team, his company’s policies and norms, and even logistics.

As we concluded, my client said: “I feel ready. I think I can deliver my feedback professionally, and I can do it warmly—and I didn’t anticipate the warm part. I also feel protected—safe in having the meeting this way.”

Some Horace Street coaching clients want to develop a skill. Others need a sounding board as they consider career alternatives. And sometimes they’re looking for the courage to confront a situation—or a person—that feels daunting.

Clients often write down phrases I use during our sessions because the words resonate with them. That can be valuable. But the real coaching is helping them feel ready to face their particular situation.

“Professional, warm, and protected” was a solid step toward ready.