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Say What You See w/ Chris Marr

🎥 CCC 003: How to tackle clients falling behind: Turning client worries into progress

Published 3 months ago • 3 min read

Hi Coach,

Coaching is a dynamic and often challenging process, filled with moments where we need to assess not just the progress our clients are making, but also our own approach.

This week, I’m diving into a topic that resonates with many of us: how to address client setbacks proactively before they become major obstacles.

For more detailed insights, check out the podcast on your favourite platform:

Key Takeaways:

  • Understanding Client Setbacks: Why it’s crucial to identify when your clients are falling behind and how this awareness can prevent bigger issues.
  • Proactive Conversations: Learn how to initiate early discussions to address setbacks before they escalate, keeping you on the front foot in your coaching relationships.
  • Radical Candor: Discover the power of being straightforward with your clients to clear up misunderstandings and realign goals.
  • Reaffirming Commitment: Strategies to reignite your clients’ motivation and ensure their continued progress and engagement.
  • Strengthening Client Relationships: How proactive coaching not only resolves immediate issues but also builds stronger, more trusting relationships with your clients.

The Challenge: Identifying Client Setbacks Early

As coaches, we often hold ourselves to higher standards than our clients might hold us to.

This can create a sense of frustration or concern when we notice that our clients are not progressing as expected.

Whether it's missed milestones, lack of communication, or simply a gut feeling that something is off, these are critical moments that require our attention.

“As a coach, your standards are often higher than your clients’, and that can create a sense of frustration when progress stalls.”

But how do we address these setbacks without waiting for the client to raise the issue? This is where proactive coaching comes into play.

The Solution: Proactive Conversations

Waiting for a client to bring up an issue often means you're already on the back foot.

Instead, taking the initiative to address potential problems early can make a significant difference.

The key is to approach these situations with a sense of curiosity and a focus on fit, rather than from a place of anxiety or frustration.

“Don’t wait for the client to bring up a problem—get ahead of it.”

Here’s a method that I’ve found effective:

  1. Early Detection: Start by regularly checking in with your clients. Use open-ended questions like, “Where are we making good progress? Where are we falling behind?” This encourages a transparent dialogue and helps you detect any issues early.
  2. Radical Candor: Sometimes, being straightforward is the best approach. If you sense that a client is dragging their feet or not fully engaging, address it directly but with care. Saying something like, “I’m concerned that we’re not making as much progress as we could. What’s happening on your end?” opens the door to honest communication.
  3. Reaffirm Commitment: Use these conversations not just to identify problems but to reaffirm the client’s commitment to their goals. Remind them of the importance of the work you’re doing together and the impact it will have if they stay on track.

The Payoff: Strengthened Client Relationships

By getting ahead of client setbacks, you’re not only preventing small issues from becoming major roadblocks but also strengthening your client relationships.

This proactive approach shows your clients that you’re invested in their success and that you’re there to support them, even when things get tough.

“A proactive approach shows your clients you’re invested in their success.”

In turn, this often leads to clients reaffirming their commitment to the coaching process, reigniting their motivation, and making more significant progress.

It also solidifies your role as a trusted partner in their journey, which is invaluable for long-term success.

Conclusion: Your Challenge for the Week Ahead

As you look ahead to your week, take a moment to reflect on your client relationships.

Is there a client you’re concerned about? Someone who might be falling behind?

Take the initiative—schedule a check-in, ask the tough questions, and ensure that you’re both still aligned and moving in the right direction.

“Take the initiative—schedule a check-in, ask the tough questions, and ensure that you’re both still aligned and moving in the right direction.”

Proactive coaching isn’t always easy, but it’s one of the most effective ways to ensure that your clients achieve their goals and that you continue to provide value as their coach.

For more detailed insights, check out the podcast on your favourite platform:

Have a great week in coaching!

🗣️ 👀

Chris.

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Say What You See w/ Chris Marr

I’m Chris Marr, and in this newsletter, I’ll help you master the art of communicating confidently, directly, and authoritatively with your clients. You’ll get actionable tips and insights on setting boundaries, managing difficult scenarios, and becoming indispensable to your clients. My goal is to give you the tools to build stronger client relationships, do your best work, and help your clients achieve true transformation.

Chris Marr is the Author of 'Become an Authoritative Coach' and works with established client-facing professionals to help them go from good to great and have more breakthrough conversations with their clients and teams.

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