This week we learned about building trust with clients. This has always been a cornerstone goal for me. Making sure that my clients trust me fully so they can share anything with me.
In addition to having my own clients, I coach for an organization called coaching for institutions (CFI). Hospitals contract with CFI to bring coaching to their physicians. Based on the package the institution purchase, clients get a set numbers of one-on-one coaching. They get a link with bio of all the coaches available and a link to book with them. I had a client through CFI yesterday who booked her first session with me. She wanted to discuss weight loss and we had a productive session. At the end, she told me the session was very helpful and then asked me I recommend she books all her remaining session with me or if she should try other coaches. Now, I felt confident that I can help her. However, I felt that the most honest answer that would help build trust is to tell her my truthful opinion. My honest opinion was that this is a personal choice. That some like to try the styles of different coaches before committing and some feel that they click with one coach and continue all sessions with them. I shared that when I was in her shoes, I tried a few coaches then picked one. After the call, I ruminated over why I said that. My main goal was to be honest, authentic, and transparent. However, I did wonder if the opposite was true. If I had said I am confident I can help her would have been the way to build trust.
Comments