Sceptical
During the initial telephone discussion, both parties were able to identify that Claire would benefit from some sessions, but Claire lives in the Channel Islands and Wendy in London. How would it work?
Wendy explained that telephone coaching is the industry ‘norm’ and that the skill of the coach is in the listening. Any change in demeanour is reflected in the voice by the tone, tonality, spontaneity, emotion, what is said and what is not said. Also, there is less distraction over the phone which all adds to the quality and depth of the conversation. Clients have a lot more flexibility in terms of booking appointments because there’s no travelling time. The only proviso is that the client is in a private space without being overheard or disturbed.
Claire commented:
“Initially, I had reservations about coaching, especially over the phone as I was a little dubious as to whether it would be possible to build the sort of relationship required to deal with issues that needed to be discussed. Although, being a very private person, I was also apprehensive about whether I would be able to open up to someone enough for the coaching to be effective. With living on a small island, there was also the chance of enlisting the help of someone that I knew or was known within my group of friends.
“Coaching over the phone did feel a little easier as I was talking to someone who I would never need to meet and who knew nothing about me or my circumstances. During the coaching I did feel able to be open and honest with Wendy and did not feel as if I was being judged in any way.
“Wendy gave me the insight to challenge my thoughts and feelings and the initial reason for seeking Wendy’s help was just the tip of the iceberg.”
Wendy added:
“Most clients initially find telephone coaching an unusual concept, mostly down to the way that counselling or physiotherapy operates, but any apprehension soon disappears.
“Claire’s coaching experience has only ever been via the telephone. Clients that have changed from face-to-face to telephone sessions have agreed, in nearly all cases, that telephone coaching is very focused as it forces clients to work harder, and the convenience factor is a big plus.”
Claire Lawrence made contact with Wendy Reeves after reading an article which appeared in a women’s lifestyle magazine. Claire was intrigued about coaching and wanted to see if it could help her.