Phases of Session I (Attunement, Expectations, Assessment, Acute Problem)

Establishing Rapport and Trust

The first phase of the initial session is devoted to establishing rapport and laying the foundation for trust. Rapport is a relationship of respect and reciprocal influence.

It is not a fixed impression, but a dynamic quality of the relationship that can be established at any time.

It is born of a sincere attempt to understand the other person from his or her point of view and represents a willingness to be open to that person.

It is crucial to understand that attunement does not mean agreement; it is perfectly possible to have an excellent connection and disagree.

There are different degrees of rapport, and when it is maintained over time, it usually leads to trust. It is natural and easy to establish if it is not actively interfered with.

The coach should focus on listening, observing and matching the client's verbal and nonverbal language to facilitate this initial connection.

Managing Expectations

The second crucial phase is to manage the coachee's expectations. It is vital to clarify what coaching is and what coaching is not, what the coach's role will be (guide, facilitator) and what the client's role will be (protagonist, responsible for the action).

The client's initial expectations about the process and the results should be explored, making sure they are realistic.

This is the time to explain the overall methodology, the importance of the coachee's commitment and the collaborative nature of the partnership.

Aligning expectations from the beginning prevents misunderstandings and frustrations later, laying the groundwork for a transparent and effective working relationship.

Valuing the Coachee and Getting Information

The third phase consists of assessing the coachee and obtaining relevant information. Basic information is collected (name, contact details) and, in the case of business coaching, organizational data.

Most importantly, key areas of the client's life are explored: career, relationships, health and energy, financial situation, goals and values, commitment to personal development, life balance, spiritual development (if applicable), leisure and other interests. The way to eva luate is personal, but the essential thing is never to judge.

It is useful to ask guiding questions: How does the coachee see, hear and feel the world? How does he/she interpret his/her experience? What is his/her predominant state of mind? What is his/her attitude towards others? Careful observation should be made of their appearance, dress, gestures, voice, speech patterns and eye contact.

In this first session, the coach should limit himself primarily to listening and observing.

Discovering the Most Acute Problem

The fourth phase focuses on discovering the most pressing problem or issue for the coachee at that moment. Often, this pressing need becomes apparent during the first session.

Some of these issues may be related to the rapid acquisition of new skills, and in such cases, one or two sessions may be sufficient.

It is important to recognize that there are different types of clients: some are unaware of their difficulties, others are more aware and come for a specific problem, others present more complex situations with limiting beliefs or adverse circumstances that will require several sessions, and others seek fundamental change through personal coaching.

Regardless of the type, the co