Closing a Session with Clarity and Partnership
Dec 03, 2024
Closing a Session with Clarity and Partnership
As we approach the end of the year, it’s an ideal time to reflect on how we close coaching sessions. Effectively closing a session is essential for creating clarity and alignment, summarising insights, and ensuring clients feel prepared to take action. PCC Marker 8.9, which emphasises “partnering with the client to close the session,” provides guidance on closing conversations in a way that feels complete and empowering.
Understanding PCC Marker 8.9: Partnering for Closure
PCC Marker 8.9 underscores the importance of working with the client to finalise their insights, establish action steps, and visualise how they’ll implement them moving forward. This is a process of partnership, where the coach and client co-create clarity rather than the coach merely summarising the session. A session that closes with true partnership empowers the client, reinforcing their sense of ownership and fostering self-reflective skills essential for growth.
Questions and Statements to Partner with Clients for a Powerful Close
The questions and statements used in a session’s close can significantly influence a client’s readiness to act. By inviting clients to reflect on what they have discovered and their next steps, we empower them to take full ownership of their progress. Here are some examples aligned with PCC Marker 8.9 that support a strong close:
- Summarising Insights and Learning
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- “What key insights or takeaways stood out for you in today’s conversation?”
- “Reflecting on our discussion, what did you find most valuable?”
These questions encourage clients to anchor their primary insights, ensuring they leave with clarity.
2. Establishing Ownership and Accountability
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- “What actions feel most aligned with your goals, and how do
you envision moving forward with these?” - “What steps will you take next, and how would you like to
keep track of your progress?”
- “What actions feel most aligned with your goals, and how do
By co-creating next steps, we invite clients to establish accountability in a
way that feels achievable.
- Building Confidence and Clarity
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- “How confident do you feel about taking these steps, and is there any support you’d like to identify?”
- “Is there anything you need to clarify or strengthen before moving forward?”
These questions ensure clients leave feeling capable and clear about their next actions.
4. Encouraging Integration Beyond the Session
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- “How do you see these insights impacting other areas of your life?”
- “What would it look like if you kept these discoveries in mind as you move forward?”
These questions help clients envision applying their learning more broadly, reinforcing a mindset of growth and adaptability.
Concluding with Empowerment and Encouragement
The session close is also an ideal moment to acknowledge the client’s strengths and progress. Here’s an example of a closing statement that brings together these elements:
- “I appreciate the insights you brought to today’s session. You’ve identified clear next steps that reflect your commitment and growth.”
This closing statement recognises the client’s role in their success, reinforcing intrinsic motivation as they leave.
Fostering Growth Through Effective Session Closure
Partnering with clients to close a session in alignment with PCC Marker 8.9 supports both purpose and direction. An effective close is more than a summary; it’s a collaborative transition point that honours the client’s journey and sets a foundation for continued growth. Ending each session this way strengthens your client’s commitment and deepens the coaching relationship, setting both of you on a strong path as the new year begins.
Sharing these mentoring moments with you,
Gaye
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