What should a coach do when unsure during a session?

When a coach feels unsure during a session, the most effective approach is to ask questions for clarification. This method fosters open communication between the coach and the client. By seeking clarification, the coach demonstrates active listening, engagement, and a genuine interest in understanding the client's perspective. This can lead to deeper insights and more effective coaching, as it encourages the client to articulate their thoughts and feelings more clearly.

In addition, asking questions helps to illuminate any areas of confusion or misunderstanding, allowing the coach to provide more tailored support. This approach can also build trust, as clients often feel valued when their thoughts and concerns are acknowledged and explored further.

Vague responses can lead to misunderstandings and miscommunications, which do not facilitate effective coaching. Changing the subject may bypass important issues that need to be addressed, while ignoring uncertainty can hinder progress and may leave both the coach and client feeling unsatisfied with the session. Therefore, seeking clarification is the most constructive and professional course of action in situations of uncertainty during coaching sessions.