5 Things to Consider Before Choosing a Coach Training Program
September 24, 2022
Five things to consider before choosing a coach training program:
- Will you learn from one person, or is the curriculum taught by a group of instructors? Single point of view training programs risk becoming guru-driven social cliques that do not provide a deep enough foundation of skills. Guru-led programs tend to cultivate very loyal followers and a trail of students disillusioned and left behind, with not much in between.
- Does the program offer marketing support or marketing training? All the shiny training in the world won’t do you much good if you don’t know how to market your practice. Marketing is an essential element for every successful coach. You want a program that does more than dropping you off at the curb with a certificate, wishing you good luck.
- How large is the group you will be training in? Too many coaching programs pack the classes with as many students as possible because the more students, the more money. That said, coach training is intimate and complex. Knowing how many students you will train with will tell you a lot about how much instructor time, one-to-one time, and intimacy you will get in your training. It matters.
- Can you afford the training? Will you have to go into debt? Does the program offer a payment or financing plan? If you are going to be left with debt at the end of the program, that may impact how much pressure you feel to build a practice – financial pressure is not fun. There are a lot of high-pressure to-buy tactics in the coach training universe. However, taking on debt is a serious decision. Do it knowing it could be months or even years before you recoup your investment.
- What happens if you can’t keep up? Life is unpredictable. You don’t know what the future is going to throw at you. If something goes down in your life and you fall behind or even need to take a leave from your studies, does the program have policies to support you?

When working as a coach, understanding your client's personality can truly transform how effective your sessions are. People have different ways of communicating, and knowing how to tailor your approach can make all the difference. For coaches, one of the most common personality types you'll encounter is extroversion. Extroverted clients thrive on interaction and social environments, making them dynamic but sometimes challenging to coach without the right approach. Grasping the nuances of personality in coaching helps build trust and enhances results. Extroverts often enjoy being social and spontaneous, making a lively and engaging session more effective for them. A coach's ability to adapt these elements into their strategy can lead to more meaningful interactions and successful outcomes. By catering to their vibrant nature, you ensure that your coaching resonates well and delivers the impact you aim for. Understanding Extroverted Clients Extroverts are known for their lively, outgoing personalities. They draw energy from being around others and thrive in interactive settings. These individuals often enjoy talking things out, participating in group activities, and aren't shy about sharing their thoughts. Motivation for extroverts often comes from external sources, like the people around them or the fast-paced environment they're in. When you think about coaching an extroverted client, consider how these traits can influence your approach. They generally prefer discussions over written communications and often value immediate feedback. Here are a few ways extroverted traits can shape their preferences: - Interaction-Driven: They favor engaging and responsive communication where both sides actively participate. - Visual and Verbal Learning: Extroverts often grasp concepts better through discussions, role-playing, and visual aids. - Feedback-Oriented: Quick responses and constructive feedback can keep them motivated and on track. Understanding these qualities means you can tailor your coaching strategies to be more responsive and engaging, leading to what feels like a productive partnership rather than a one-way interaction. Adapting Your Communication Style Communicating effectively with extroverted clients involves injecting energy and enthusiasm into your sessions. These clients respond well to a setting that matches their vibrant nature. Consider how your voice, gestures, and even your facial expressions can project positivity and engagement. This doesn't mean you have to completely change who you are; rather, it's about matching their energy level to create a more dynamic interaction. Regularly show interest in their inputs to keep them motivated and involved. Active listening is another critical component when coaching extroverts. They want to know that their thoughts and opinions are valued. By actively listening, you show them you care about their perspective. It's equally important to provide immediate feedback. Extroverts appreciate knowing how they are doing right then and there, which helps them feel understood and helps them adjust accordingly if needed. Use feedback as a tool to encourage and guide them, reinforcing their strengths while gently steering them away from unproductive habits. Techniques for Effective Engagement To keep extroverted clients fully engaged, incorporate exciting and interactive activities into your sessions. Group coaching can be particularly effective as these clients enjoy sharing ideas with peers. This environment encourages collaboration and discussion, which can result in new insights and a deeper understanding of the material. If group sessions aren't possible, simulate this interaction by using role-playing exercises. Here are a few practical techniques you might consider: - Interactive Discussions: Encourage clients to discuss ideas and share opinions to foster a collaborative learning atmosphere. - Visual Aids: Use charts, diagrams, and videos to appeal to their preference for visual learning. - Mini Workshops: Plan brief, informal workshops within sessions where clients can test out new concepts in a supportive setting. These activities can make learning more enjoyable for your extroverted clients, keeping them actively involved in their own progress. Building Rapport with Extroverts Creating a strong rapport is fundamental to any coaching relationship, especially with extroverted clients. They usually appreciate coaches who are personable and approachable. Open communication builds trust and encourages them to share freely, which can lead to more effective sessions. Offering genuine praise and recognition for their efforts can boost their confidence. Acknowledge their achievements, no matter how small, to encourage continued engagement. Finding common ground or shared interests can also enhance your connection, making sessions more enjoyable for both parties. Final Thoughts Tailoring your communication to fit the unique needs of extroverted clients can lead to rewarding results. By understanding their traits and adapting your methods, you create a learning environment that resonates with them. This approach not only bolsters their growth but also enhances your effectiveness as a coach. Always be willing to adjust and refine your techniques, reflecting on what works best for each individual, to keep your coaching strategies fresh and impactful. Tailoring your communication techniques for extroverted clients can significantly boost your effectiveness as a coach and deepen your connection with them. If you're looking to refine your approach and explore effective strategies in more depth, consider finding out more about coaching for extroverts with The Coaching Guild. Our resources are designed to help you create meaningful coaching experiences that resonate with your clients and promote growth.