One of the most important parts of the coaching or mentoring journey happens before we dive into the ‘real’ work. It’s the part where we pause and contract for how we’re going to work together.
When I began coaching, I was often so excited to get started that I’d rush into coaching straight away. It felt like the best use of time. What I’ve since learned is that spending the first session contracting and setting up ways of working doesn’t delay the journey, it accelerates it.
In Session 1 of my Coach Mentoring program, we focus on three things:
- Process and structure – we clarify how the sessions will run, the rhythm of our work, and the expectations for both mentor and coach.
- Meaningful mentoring – we explore what will make this process valuable for you and what success would look like by the end of our time together.
- Strengths and uncertainties – we look at what you bring as a coach, and where you feel less confident, so we can tailor our work to both celebrate and stretch you.
This contracting creates a stronger foundation of trust and clarity. It makes the mentoring process smoother and more powerful. And it ensures we are aligned not only on the ‘what’ but also the ‘how’ and the ‘why’ of working together.
Far from being a detour, this conversation is the starting point for growth.
FInd out more about my individual or group coach mentoring here or book a time to chat about how I can help you below.