How can you establish a clear and transparent coaching agreement with your clients?

1 Why is a coaching agreement important?

A coaching agreement is not just a legal contract, but also a communication tool that helps you and your client align on the purpose, scope, and outcomes of the coaching process. It also helps you avoid misunderstandings, conflicts, and ethical dilemmas that may arise during or after the coaching sessions. A coaching agreement demonstrates your professionalism, credibility, and commitment to your client's success and well-being.

2 What should a coaching agreement include?

A coaching agreement should include essential information and terms to define the coaching relationship, such as the names, contact details, duration, frequency, and mode of the coaching sessions. Additionally, it should include fees, payment methods, and cancellation policies as well as goals, objectives, and indicators of the process. Furthermore, the agreement should cover roles, responsibilities, and expectations of both the coach and the client. It should also outline confidentiality, privacy, and data protection policies. Moreover, it should include an ethical code and standards of conduct that the coach follows. Finally, it should specify the scope and limitations of the coaching service as well as a process for feedback, evaluation, and termination of the coaching relationship.

3 How to create a coaching agreement?

Creating a coaching agreement requires a few steps that involve both you and your client. This includes conducting a discovery session to explore their needs, challenges, aspirations, and readiness for coaching, co-creating SMART goals, objectives, and indicators, drafting the agreement based on the information and terms agreed upon, reviewing and revising the agreement with your client, and finally finalizing and signing the agreement. It is important to keep a copy of the agreement for your records.

4 How to communicate a coaching agreement?

To communicate a coaching agreement effectively and transparently, you should use language that your client can understand and relate to, explain the purpose and benefits of the coaching agreement, invite questions and feedback, confirm your client's understanding and acceptance before proceeding, and remind them of the key aspects and terms of the agreement throughout the process, especially if there are any changes or challenges. Doing so will ensure that your client is well-informed and their goals and interests are supported.

5 How to follow up on a coaching agreement?

In order to follow up on a coaching agreement, you need to monitor and track the progress and outcomes of the coaching process, using the indicators and criteria established. Additionally, provide regular and constructive feedback to your client, acknowledging their achievements, strengths, and areas for improvement. Seek feedback from your client regarding how they feel about the coaching process, the results, and the relationship. It is also important to review and update the coaching agreement as needed based on any changes or feedback that may arise during the coaching process. Finally, celebrate and acknowledge the completion and success of the coaching process, while discussing the next steps or options for further coaching or support.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?