Here are the top questions clients often ask before hiring an executive coach or consultant/Human Capital Partner (HCP) along with concise answers:

 

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What is an executive coach or a consultant/Human Capital partner (HCP)? 

 

Executive Coach:

• Focuses on individual development and personal growth of leaders

• Helps clients uncover their solutions through questioning and guidance

• Emphasizes skill-building, self-awareness, and continuous learning

• Aims to enhance leadership effectiveness and unlock potential

• Process-oriented and inspirational in approach

 

Consultant/Human Capital Partner (HCP):

• Provides expert advice and solutions to specific business problems

• Analyzes organizational issues and recommends strategies

• Focuses on improving overall company performance

• Brings specialized knowledge and expertise not available internally

• Results-oriented and informational in approach

 

In essence, coaches help leaders develop their abilities through questions, while consultant/Human Capital Partner (HCP) provides direct solutions to organizational challenges

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Why do I need an executive coach? 

• Leadership Development: If you're looking to improve personal leadership skills, emotional intelligence, or decision-making abilities

• Career Growth: When you're stuck in your career, preparing for a promotion, or transitioning into a new role

• Behavioral Change: If you want to address blind spots, improve communication, or enhance team dynamics

• Self-Awareness and Accountability: If you need someone to guide you in uncovering your own solutions and holding you accountable for progress

• Stress Management: If you're experiencing burnout or struggling to balance professional and personal responsibilities

 

Basically, do you want to grow personally and professionally or not?

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Why do I need a consultant (HCP)? 

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Strategic Benefits

• Align People Strategy with Business Goals

• Translates business needs into actionable HR strategies

• Ensures human capital supports overall organizational objectives

• Bridges gap between workforce potential and company performance

 

Talent Management Advantages

• Improve Recruitment and Retention

• Develop strategic talent acquisition plans

• Create comprehensive onboarding programs

• Reduce employee turnover costs 

• Attract and retain top talent more effectively

 

Operational Efficiencies

• Reduce Operational Risks

• Minimize legal compliance challenges

• Provide expert guidance on complex HR issues

• Streamline HR processes to reduce unnecessary expenses

 

Leadership and Culture

• Enhance Workplace Productivity

• Foster employee engagement

• Design custom training programs

• Create positive work environments

• Provide objective insights into organizational dynamics

 

Cost-Effectiveness

• Flexible, Expert Support

• More affordable than full-time HR leadership

• Access specialized expertise without permanent overhead

• Bring external perspective to internal challenges

 

What is your coaching methodology?
My approach is tailored to each client, combining proven techniques and tools with personalized strategies to achieve your specific goals.

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How do you measure success in coaching?
Success is measured by your progress towards defined objectives, improved performance, and personal growth. A 360-degree evaluation will be done after a period of 6 to 12 months so we can measure the progress.

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What is your experience in my industry?
While I have 30 years of experience across various sectors, my coaching and human capital partner skills are transferable. I focus on leadership principles that apply universally. Also, being an owner of a business in the past has given me additional tools that other coaches or consultants don't have... understanding the risks of making decisons.

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How long does a typical coaching engagement last?
Each session lasts 60 to 90 minutes. Engagements typically last 6-24 months, but they can be adjusted based on your needs and progress. You can cancel at any time.

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What can I expect from our coaching sessions?
Expect challenging conversations, actionable insights, and a supportive personal and professional growth environment.

 

How do you maintain confidentiality?
I adhere to strict confidentiality protocols, ensuring all discussions and information remain private. A signed document can also be part of the agreement if needed. 

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What is your coaching style?

My style is direct yet supportive, challenging you to think differently while providing guidance and encouragement. So yes, I can be a coach and a consultant duing the same session. I am very approachable and excellent at creating a fun and comfortable environment.

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How often will we meet?
Typically, we'll meet bi-weekly or monthly, with the flexibility to adjust based on your needs and schedule.

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What happens between coaching sessions?
I provide resources and assignments and am available for brief check-ins to support your progress between sessions.

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How do you help identify blind spots?
Through targeted questioning, feedback analysis, and assessment tools, I will uncover areas for improvement you may not see. 

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What is your background and qualifications?
I have 30 years of experience and am certified by the John Maxwell Leadership Team, Human Synergistics assessment tools, and a DISC Consultant.

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How do you customize your approach for each client?
I assess your unique needs, goals, and learning style to create a personalized coaching plan.

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What tools or assessments do you use?
I utilize various tools including 360-degree feedback, personality assessments, and leadership inventories as appropriate: John Maxwell Leadership Team, Human Synergistics assessment tools, Stakeholder Centered Coaching from Marshall Goldsmith, the Accountability Chart from EOS Entrepreneurial System, DISC assessment and finally, my own analysis of the situation.

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How do you handle resistance or conflicts during coaching?
I love conflicts! I address resistance openly, viewing it as an opportunity for growth and adjusting our approach as needed. I will ask difficult questions but always create a safe and fun environment.

 

What is your pricing structure?
My fee is $600/hour, which includes the sessions, and check-ins in between. Assessment tools and traveling time are over and above the hourly fee. I'm happy to discuss options that fit your budget and needs. The goal is to make you start somewhere.

 

Look at the value. You buy a pair of shoes for 20$ good for one year (short term)... or a pair of shoes at 100$ but good for 10 years ) long term).

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Why other coaches or HCP are cheaper or more expensive?

It depends on the experience of the Coach/Human Capital partner. Sometimes you get what you pay for... and sometimes a higher price doesn't justify the results. I like to be in between.

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How do I know if the coach/HCP can be trusted?

Good question! The majority will not contact any of them because they don't feel comfortable calling or don't trust them. So look at different things:

• Credentials;

• Partnerships if any;

• LinkedIn profile;

• Are they active on Social Media platforms;

• Reviews and testimonials;

• Go for a coffee with them or have a video conference so you can have a better idea of the person... or send a simple e-mail to see how fast they respond and the type of reply.

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The fit is sooo important, make sure you are comfortable with the coach/HCP.

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Can you provide references or case studies?
Of course. I can share anonymized case studies and connect you with past clients, or existing ones, who've agreed to serve as references.

 

How do you stay current in your field?
I regularly attend professional development courses, read industry publications, and participate in coaching networks. If I don't do that, I will not be doing my job and providing the best service to you. Learning is the best asset you have.

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What distinguishes you from other coaches or HCP?
What you see is what you get! Tons of experiences, very approachable, genuine, and able to put you at ease and you will be comfortable quickly. No, I am not a hypnotist or magician... I am just someone who is trying to help. Also, my unique combination of being in different industries in senior management positions and having my own companies and personalized approach sets me apart in delivering results. Nothing less, nothing more.

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How do you define the coaching relationship?
Building trust is the first step... establishing rapport and focusing on your growth with clear boundaries and mutual respect are also crucial for a great outcome. 

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What is your cancellation policy for sessions?
I require 24 hours' notice for cancellations. Missed sessions without notice are billed at the full rate.

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How do you help clients set and achieve goals?
We'll collaboratively set SMART goals and develop actionable plans, with regular progress reviews and adjustments. Check-ins will also be done between sessions.

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What is your availability for urgent issues?
I'm available for brief, scheduled check-ins between sessions for urgent matters. This service is included in my hourly fees.

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How do you ensure client accountability?
We'll establish clear action items and deadlines, with regular check-ins to review progress and address challenges. But in the end, it is up to you to decide whether or not you want to change and succeed. You need to be a "coachable" person.

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What is your policy on extending or terminating the coaching relationship?
You can cancel at any time. No questions asked. But in the meantime, we'll regularly assess the engagement's value and can adjust the duration as needed, with a clear process for concluding our work.

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How do you help clients sustain changes after coaching ends?
We'll develop strategies for ongoing growth and self-coaching, ensuring you have the tools to continue your development independently. We will also check in once a month. This service is also part of the hourly fee for a period of 6 months.