Frequently asked questions

1. What is leadership coaching?

Leadership coaching focuses on developing and enhancing leadership skills and abilities. In leadership coaching, the coach works closely with the client to identify their strengths, areas for growth, and specific leadership or professional objectives. The coach helps the client gain self-awareness and insight into their leadership style, communication patterns, decision-making processes, and interpersonal dynamics.

International Coaching Federation (ICF) is a globally recognized association for coaches that promotes the highest standards of coaching excellence and ethics. To become accredited by ICF, coaches must complete approved coach-specific training, demonstrate a high level of coaching competence through coaching experience, adhere to the ICF Code of Ethics, and pass a comprehensive assessment conducted by ICF. Accreditation by ICF signifies that a coach has met the organization’s requirements and is recognized as a professional coach with high expertise and ethical practice.

3. Is it like psychotherapy?

NO. ABSOLUTELY NOT. Coaching can update one’s potential by developing talents, resources or skills in a person neither in distress nor in pain but who expresses particular needs in terms of personal or professional achievements.

Please refer to Division IV, section 6 (7) in Interventions that do not constitute psychotherapy.

Coaching is not counseling or psychotherapy, as it primarily focuses on the present and future rather than examining past issues or deep emotional healing. It operates under the assumption that the client is resourceful and capable of finding their own solutions with the support and guidance of the coach.

4. Will a coach give me advice? 

No. The primary role of a coach is not to give advice. Instead, they facilitate by asking thought-provoking questions, actively listening, and providing support to help clients gain clarity, set goals, and create action plans. Coaches empower clients to find their own solutions, drawing on their wisdom and experiences. While coaches may offer at sometimes insights and perspectives, their emphasis remains on fostering self-awareness, unlocking potential, and aligning strategies with your values and goals.

5. Why schedule a discovery call?

A discovery call is a crucial step in the coaching process as it allows the coach and potential. client to establish rapport, clarify goals and expectations, assess compatibility, and address any questions or concerns. It serves as an opportunity to ensure mutual understanding and fit before committing to a coaching relationship, setting the stage for a successful coaching journey based on trust and shared objectives.

6. What should I expect in a discovery call?

A discovery call is an initial conversation where the coach and potential client connect to explore goals, challenges, and aspirations. It allows the coach to gather information and provide insights on how coaching can support professional growth. Additionally, the client can learn about the coach’s background, methodologies, and expertise, assessing their fit and compatibility. By exploring these aspects, the client can determine if the coach is the right guide for their growth and development journey. The discovery call is a valuable step to establish rapport, clarify expectations, and lay the foundation for a successful coaching relationship.

7. How to select a Coach ?

When hiring a coach, consider the following tips: educate yourself about coaching, reflect on your goals, interview multiple coaches, and confirm their credibility by researching their training and credentials. During the interview, ask about their experience, coach-specific training, areas of specialization, types of organizations they work with, coaching success stories, and ICF membership or credentials. By following these tips, you can find a qualified coach who aligns with your needs and goals. 

8. How do I prepare for a coaching session?

Coaching primarily takes place through one-hour virtual sessions. You can schedule a specific time for the call by going on my scheduling page and from there, we will begin the coaching process at the designated date and time you have selected. Prior to our first session, I will ask you the fill out an intake form which is a document that captures essential information. It serves as the initial step in the coaching process, allowing me to gather relevant details and tailor the coaching experience to meet your specific requirements. The intake form typically includes sections where the client provides their personal information (contact information only), articulates their coaching goals and objectives, describes their current challenges and concerns, shares any prior coaching experience, expresses their preferred coaching approach, and acknowledges the coach’s confidentiality policy and consent for the coaching process. By completing the intake form, you will be providing valuable insights that enable me to understand what you are looking for and design a coaching journey that is aligned with your goals and aspirations.

9.  Why virtual coaching ?

Online meetings provide a practical solution, allowing you to manage your schedule better and establish connections regardless of your geographical location or time zone. Additionally, face-to-face coaching sessions can be arranged for clients residing in Montreal or its surrounding areas.

10. How many coaching sessions will I need?

The duration of your coaching depends on your desired outcomes and the life and work experiences you bring to our conversations. For some individuals, achieving their goals may only require a few sessions, while others may need more time. It's a highly personal decision that is based on your specific objectives.  Typically, we recommend a package of 6 or 10 sessions over a period of 2 to 6 months.  Single sessions are also possible. 

11. What should be the frequency of my individual coaching sessions? 

Typically, clients find it beneficial to start with one weekly coaching session. As they progress towards their desired goals, the frequency of sessions gradually decreases. 

12. What is the difference between individual coaching and group coaching?

Individual coaching involves a one-on-one coaching relationship between the coach and the client. It is personalized and tailored to the specific needs, goals, and challenges of the individual.

Group coaching involves coaching sessions conducted with a small group of individuals. The group members typically share common interests, goals, or challenges. Group coaching creates a supportive environment where participants can learn from each other's experiences, provide peer support, and gain insights from different perspectives. The coach facilitates the sessions, guiding discussions and providing coaching interventions that benefit the entire group.

13.   What is the difference between one-to-one leadership coaching and leadership development?

One-to-one coaching with a leadership coach is a personalized process that focuses on an individual's specific goals and challenges, providing tailored guidance and support. Leadership development, on the other hand, is a broader approach that aims to enhance leadership skills and capabilities within individuals or groups through various methods such as training, mentoring, and coaching.

14. How much does coaching cost?

Coaching is an investment in professional growth and development. While it may involve a financial commitment, many individuals perceive it as a one-time investment in themselves. When considering the impact of aligning one's professional journey with their true aspirations and goals, coaching can transition from being seen as a discretionary expense to becoming an important investment in professional development.

15. Can I cancel my appointment for an individual session ?

Of course.  Kindly note that at Sophie Makonnen Coaching & Consulting, we have a 24-hour cancellation policy in place. This means that if you need to cancel or reschedule a coaching session, we kindly ask for at least 24 hours notice. If a cancellation is made within the 24-hour notice period, the session will be considered as completed, and a refund will not be provided.

We understand that unforeseen circumstances or emergencies can arise, and we are open to considering exceptions on a case-by-case basis. If you find yourself in such a situation, please communicate your need to reschedule as soon as possible, and we will make every effort to accommodate an alternative session time within a reasonable timeframe.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in respecting our cancellation policy, as it allows us to manage our schedule and serve all our clients efficiently and effectively.