What do we do?

We talk. We talk about...

• what you want
• what you're doing to get it
• what's getting in the way
• your priorities
• your plans
• what there is to do
• by when it should get done
• and anything else that is or could be relevant to your success

I sometimes provide you with a motivational assessment (the Reiss Profile) or suggest you take the strengths assessment from the book Now, Discover Your Strengths.

This description gives you none of the flavor of coaching nor any sence of its potential for you. For that, you have to try it out. Our first meeting is designed to make that easy: If you decide to hire me, you pay for that first meeting. If you decide to not hire me, you don't pay for it.

Is this done in person?

If you're local, we do what works best for you. I prefer meeting in person, but it's your choice. For those outside the Twin Cities, we work by phone.

Where do we meet?

Wherever it works best for you. Your office? Fine. Your porch? Fine. My world headquarters? Fine.

How long do we work together?

The guru's of coaching stress that adult development is a gradual process. They suggest that a typical coaching relationship will last a year. I say, it depends.

If your goal is to complete a specific project, overcome a particular problem, or deal with a clear issue, then a typical project covers three to six months. If you are a business owner or senior executive, your focus is likely more broad than a single project and we'll probably be partnering for a year or more.

How many times do we talk?

If we're working face-to-face, we'll meet twice in the first month and then every 3 or 4 weeks.

If we're working by phone, we'll talk once or twice each month.

Ultimately, frequency is based on what works best for you.

How long is a meeting?

A typical coaching meetings runs 60 - 75 minutes, and I leave enough time on my calendar for them to go up to 90 minutes.

What about confidentiality?

Conversations between us are confidential.

How do extra telephone calls work?

There's never an extra charge when I call you. There's also no extra charge for brief (10 minute) calls. If you are in the middle of something important, do call.

What happens if I need to reschedule an appointments?

I request 24-hours notice before rescheduling and reserve the right to bill for short-notice cancellations. If you have a medical or similar emergency, of course we will work around it.

Is my manager involved?

First, remember that our conversations are strictly confidential. But, if your employer is paying for the coaching, consider the following...

• Early on, maybe before you and I meet, I'll meet with your manager to get her/his input.
• Your's and my first objective will be to set your objectives. You will provide your manager with as much of that information as you choose.

I may talk with or meet with your manager during the course of our work to give him/her the opportunity to provide me information. I provide no progress reports. That's your responsibility.