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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHAT IS COACHING?

Coaching is a thinking partnership, where a person has dedicated time to reflect on their thoughts, ideas and feelings without interruption or judgement, to allow change or progress to occur - like untangling a bundle of string into clear threads of ideas and actions.

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They may be experiencing frustration, annoyance, or stagnation and looking to make a change. Progress is made through the client adjusting their thinking and/or behaviours, with the aid of a coach.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF COACHING?

Some of my previous clients have experience the following benefits:

  • Self-esteem and confidence when working with difficult people

  • Identifying personal strengths for job interviews after prolonged unemployment

  • Heightened emotional awareness in difficult times (stress, anger, frustration etc) and how to manage it

  • Improved decision-making where previously there was hesitation and feeling ‘stuck’

  • Clarity around personal values that then inform career choices

  • Awareness of personal leadership style and how to then maximise it in service of the team

  • Improved focus, energy and drive and reduced mental ‘chatter’

  • Finding balance & perspective between work and family commitments


Also see my ‘Testimonials’ page for more on my clients’ experiences.

WHAT IF I DON’T KNOW IF COACHING IS RIGHT FOR ME?

No problem. Sometimes clients begin coaching sessions, only to discover that the fit isn’t quite right, or perhaps a different discipline is more appropriate for their situation.

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I offer an initial 30-45 minute conversation for free – on the phone or in person – so we can consider the suitability of working together before going further. My professional credentials also give you peace of mind that I will signpost clients towards more appropriate support if coaching is not the right direction for their circumstances.

WHAT DOES A TYPICAL SESSION WITH ROB LOOK LIKE?

It could be a woodland walk, a cosy sit down, a phone call or an online session, typically lasting 1-2 hours.


While I don’t prescribe one format for my coaching sessions, I do love a walk & talk outdoors! I find the combination of movement & natural spaces calms the mind and helps thinking flow. I live in Sheffield, which enjoys a host of great park and woodland spaces, as well as the Peak District National Park on the doorstep. However, some of my clients do choose a favourite café, or my home as a preferred option.


Where appropriate, I offer clients coaching ‘tools’, that may involve writing, drawing, or physical movement. These are always optional and only offered if I believe they may be helpful in that situation.

WHAT HAPPENS IN THE INITIAL 30-45 MINUTE CONVERSATION?

It can be on the phone or in person at a mutually convenient time (including some evenings) and its an opportunity for you to have any questions answered, explain what you are hoping to achieve in sessions, and experience a short taster of what a coaching session with me might be like. After the call is over, you can then decide if it’s right for you, with no obligation.

HOW IS IT DIFFERENT FROM COUNSELLING OR MENTORING?

Coaching is future-focused. Clients have a future goal or objective in their personal or professional life they want to work towards. Professional coaches are trained in profound listening & questioning techniques, but the client is considered the expert on their own situation.

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Counselling can be past-focused, where clients may have experienced events or situations that are interfering more significantly with aspects of their daily life. Counsellors and therapists are trained in mental health and psychological conditions.

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Mentoring is for those looking for expert guidance in a particular field. The mentor is the expert, providing their insight and experience directly to the client.

PRACTICALITIES

  • Typical session duration is 1-2 hours.

  • Most clients choose 3-6 sessions in order to make good progress on their goals.

  • Single sessions are available for very specific goals, e.g. preparing for a job interview coming up in 2 weeks.

  • Initial 30-45 minute conversation FREE. 

  • Normal session rates £60 per hour.

  • Student rates £40 per hour.

Coaching FAQs: FAQ
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