Why is an ICF Competency-Based Structure Essential for a Successful Coaching Session?
When we talk about coaching sessions, whether in-person or virtual, as is the case with MyBeatCoach, which offers that option in its service, the key to success lies in how they are structured.
It doesn’t matter if we are discussing a typical session, agreed upon with an agenda, lasting an average of 45 to 60 minutes, or when, especially now in VUCA times, every second counts, the real-time session might take less time. The conceptual structuring is key.
Following a methodology based on the competencies of the International Coaching Federation (ICF) not only provides a framework but also ensures that each session is directed towards the specific needs of the client, facilitating discovery, depth, and therefore fostering awareness, responsibility, and of course, actionable steps. Below, we explore why the structure of the session, divided into blocks aligned with ICF competencies, is fundamental for the success of the process.
1. Establishing Progress and Managing Achievements
At the beginning of the session, it is vital to make the objective tangible, which should not be intangible but rather specific. If it is a continuation of a previous session, a review of the progress made since the last session is included at the start. This first block is not just a courtesy but a key tool for consolidating learning. Why is it important to start here? Because either by setting an objective or by recognizing previous achievements helps build trust and motivation. Coaching is based on continuous growth, and starting on a positive note reinforces the client’s ability to move forward.
2. Establishing the Session’s Objective
The objective of each session must be clearly defined. This is where the coach and the client work together to discover what they really want to achieve. Establishing this objective is crucial as it allows the session to have a clear direction. The ICF methodology guides us to explore the “what” and “why” behind the objective. Questions like “What do you want to achieve?” and “Why is it important to you?” help to unravel the client’s reality and the challenges they face. Without a clear objective, the session risks becoming diffuse, lacking tangible results. This aligns perfectly with corporate methodologies like Agile, Lean, etc., which are essential in departments such as operations, sales, etc.
3. Deep Exploration
Once the objective has been established, it is necessary to delve deeper. Here, the coach must ask powerful questions that lead the client to reflect on their situation, emotions, and sensations. This stage is key to unlocking new perspectives and promoting self-discovery. It is important to highlight that it is not about providing answers but facilitating a space where the client can explore their own solutions. Questions like “Who are you in this situation?” or “What part of you needs this change?” allow for introspection that is essential for authentic progress. It is vital that the coach, even having skills that might lead them to want to offer advice or action, focuses on their role as a coach and not as a mentor, allowing the coachee or client to lead their own steps.
4. Action Planning
At this point, the client has explored their situation in depth, and it is time to plan concrete actions. Here lies the importance of transforming discovery into action, ensuring that the client does not just stay in the realm of reflection but also advances with specific steps. The ICF competency emphasizes the need to lead the client to a detailed plan: “What are you going to do exactly?”, “How are you going to achieve it?”, “When are you going to start?”. Clear and concrete planning ensures that the client has a plan to follow, which is essential for accountability and long-term success. This aligns with methodologies like GROW (Goal, Reality, Options, What-When-How), whereby the client or coachee will focus on solutions for their G (goal), rather than problems (Reality), by discovering and planning Action Options (O), and especially defining in an Agile manner, When, How, and Where (W).
5. Closing and Commitment
Finally, the session should be closed in such a way that the client feels confident about what they have discovered and committed to the steps they have decided to take. At this stage, it is essential for the coach to recap and reawaken awareness about the key discoveries and ask: “What have you learned today?” or “What are you committing to?” or “What is the first step you said you would take?”. This not only reinforces achievements but also ensures that the client leaves with a clear and tangible commitment regarding the next steps to take, and most importantly, this confidence and drive is the solid foundation of that sought-after workplace well-being.
My Beat Conclusion
MyBeatCoach has been based on this methodology from the beginning. The team of coaches that is part of the team are not only certified coaches but are also evaluated by the company based on these ICF competencies, having to demonstrate that both in planned sessions and in real-time, they follow this structure seamlessly. Furthermore, the AI that is part of the service is trained and updated daily based on competencies, with training conducted by expert corporate coaches, both at the one-to-one and group levels, ensuring that the coaching session is not “an oracle” or “a solution seeker,” but a true coach with methodology that enhances the talent and action of the employee.
Following a structure based on ICF competencies is not merely a formality; it is an essential tool to ensure the success of each coaching session. From establishing objectives to planning concrete actions and closing with commitment, each block of the session has a clear purpose that guarantees that the client benefits to the fullest. Only through a well-structured process, guided by powerful questions and deep exploration, can meaningful discoveries be generated that lead to growth and effective action.
