How to Make Executive Coaching Work for You
To make executive coaching work for you, you need to show up ready to learn, be open to feedback, and take action between sessions. Coaching is a partnership. When you put in the effort, you can improve your leadership skills, boost self-awareness, and achieve your career goals faster.
Why Some Leaders Get More from Coaching
I have been an executive coach for many years. It is rewarding when leaders ask for help and then follow through. They try new behaviors and see real results. Most leaders do this. But sometimes, a leader agrees to coaching but never finds time to read articles or try new skills. They ignore feedback. In these cases, coaching becomes one-sided. The coach shares advice, but the leader does not act. This does not work.
If your company pays for coaching, you may feel less invested. But coaching works best when you care about your growth. Even if you think you do not need coaching, try talking to a coach. Many leaders find that having an expert listen to them is very valuable. As one CEO told me, "Who else will spend two hours just listening to me?"
What to Do Before Each Coaching Session
To get the most from coaching, prepare before each session. Here is how:
- Set clear goals. At the start, know what you want from coaching. Share this with your coach. They can help you see if your goals are realistic.
- Pick 1–2 focus areas. Think about what you want to work on next. Some leaders send bullet points before the session. This helps the coach prepare for what matters to you. For example, you may have a tough meeting with your boss or need advice after a conflict.
- Complete readings and assessments. Your coach picks articles for your situation. Read them before the session. If you need to do an assessment or get feedback from others, do it on time. Be honest in your answers. The results are only as good as your input.
What to Do During a Coaching Session
During the session, be active and open. Follow these tips:
- Be vulnerable and honest. Share your real challenges. Admit your weaknesses. Your coach is not there to judge you. They want to understand you so they can help you grow. Good coaches have heard it all before.
- Give feedback to your coach. If you want more guidance, more articles, or different advice, tell them. They only know if you speak up.
- Take notes. Write down key ideas or use AI to take notes for you. Review these notes before your next session.
- Ask questions. If you do not understand something, ask. A good coach can explain it clearly.
What to Do After a Coaching Session
What you do after the session matters just as much. Here is how to follow through:
- Reflect and summarize. Spend a few minutes after each session to write down 1–2 things to think about or do. Many leaders skip this step, but it helps you remember and apply what you learned.
- Do your homework. If your coach gives you a task, complete it before the next session. For example, if they suggest a new way to talk to a colleague, try it. If they send readings on empathy, read them. You are responsible for your own progress.
Coaching Is a Partnership
Remember, a coach cannot solve all your problems. But they can help you build skills like communication, conflict management, empathy, and resilience. They can also help you understand your strengths and weaknesses. The key is your mindset. Be willing to give coaching the time and attention it needs. If you do, it can make a real difference in your leadership and career success.
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