How to prepare for a successful online coaching session

Tips on how to make an online coaching session work well and deliver a good experience

Coaches and personal development practitioners have been able to take advantage of the many the many advantages that the online world offers in the workplace..

Society is constantly evolving. First it was the telephone, then radio, and finally television. But without a doubt, if anything changed it completely, it was the appearance of the Internet.

Its invention not only allows us to communicate two-way with any corner of the planet, something that was already possible with the telephone, but also to see the face of our interlocutor, share files, interact in real time with several people at the same time or attend live face-to-face classes in the most prestigious institutions. And all this without leaving the couch. In short: we are only separated from the world by a screen.

The potential of coaching in the online environment

These advances also have repercussions at the work level. Not in vain, they make it possible, among other things, to work from remote locations, to create a wide portfolio of clients in different countries, as well as to facilitate their expansion to companies. Coaches and personal development professionals have been able to take advantage of all its many advantages..

While it is true that many were initially reluctant to conduct online sessions, the situation brought about by COVID-19 has forced them to do so, thus overcoming their fears. Their main concern was that they would not be as effective as face-to-face sessions, especially when it came to carrying out dynamics. However, despite the fact that they have been found to be effective, not everything goes.

So, a series of steps must be followed and care must be taken when preparing these online sessions.. It is not in vain that it is the brand image and quality sign.

Steps to follow to prepare a successful online coaching session

Here are several key ideas to keep in mind when preparing for an online coaching session.

1. A computer, webcam, microphone and speakers are not enough

There are several things to consider before organizing an online coaching session, starting with a good Internet connection.

This is essential in terms of quality of service; it is essential to ensure that the session runs smoothly and is not interrupted (thus leaving the client "hung up" in the middle of a dynamic).

Therefore, although it is often overlooked, it demonstrates professionalism and concern for offering a good service. In addition, if possible, it is recommended that the connection is made via cable.The client is not a client, since with Wi-Fi there is a risk that the signal may fail. When this happens, the thread of the session is lost and the client state is broken, something that is disastrous for the desired result.

2. Choose a comfortable space

Choosing a comfortable and intimate space (and inviting the client to do so as well) helps to create a favorable atmosphere for the session.

Don't forget that the coachee is watching you, so choose a background that makes a good impression (the kitchen, for example, is not a good place to do it). (the kitchen, for example, does not convey it) is essential.

If you do not want to show the room for privacy reasons, some applications allow you to create virtual backgrounds. In this way, whoever is on the other side of the screen will not know what is around.

Whatever the case may be, the space from which the client connects must allow him to stand up, as it may be required by some of the dynamics used..

3. Take care of the wardrobe

The same applies to the way you dress. Even if the session is done from home and you remain seated in a chair, you cannot wear just any clothes. Remember that part of the professionalism is transmitted visually, and clothing is part of the whole.and clothing is part of the whole.

4. Choosing the right digital platform

Another important point when preparing a successful online coaching session is to choose a good video conferencing application. choosing a good videoconferencing application. There are both free and premium ones, with Zoom, Skype and GoToMeeting being perhaps the most popular.

However, regardless of the one chosen, it must be one that does not include advertising and that allows the session to be conducted without being aware of the clock, as some of them cut the video call after a certain time has elapsed.

It is also important that it allows file or screen sharing.It helps to interact with the client if necessary or if required by the dynamics. If in doubt between several, an application that allows streaming connection, i.e. that does not require the installation of any program on the computer, is the most recommendable. In fact, this type of app is currently the most popular.

5. Taking care of the audiovisual aspect

Finally, we began the section by saying that a computer, webcam, microphone and speakers are not enough, but these aspects should not be neglected. A clear and crisp image and sound depend on it. depend on it. This contributes greatly to the smooth running of the session, thus reinforcing the quality of the service.

The importance of training

Despite the above, there is no point in taking care of the smallest detail if the content of the coaching session is not up to standard.

So, just as online is synonymous with success in the same, so is it when it comes to training as a professional in the sector. Aware of this, at D'Arte Human and Business School we are committed to the streaming system when it comes to training future coaches who will lead the world. More information about our training offer at darteformacion.es.