Coaching with NLP For Dummies®

Practise on Willing Guinea Pigs

Top international golfer Gary Player said, ‘You must work very hard to become a natural player.’ Just like any professional, the more hours of practice you put in, the better you become. The way to improve at coaching is practice. The more practice you put in, the better you become.

Find people to practise your coaching skills with. Many people would love to have some coaching, but can't normally afford it. Even if you're not charging, contract with your guinea pigs that they buy the coffee or make some contribution so that you feel you have a commercial contract. Chapter 3 has many more ideas about contracting.

Your family and friends don't make the best guinea pigs because you have established relationships with them. They don't see you as a coach, and the knowledge you already have about them can get in the way of your coaching. Look for people that you don't know so well. Volunteer your services at work, through community groups, clubs or friends of friends.

When people pay for coaching, even a token amount, they're more likely to be committed than when it's completely free. Consider offering coaching at a very modest fee or in return for a light meal. This is very reasonable when you're a novice or want to extend your experience in a new field. Don't be afraid to say you're new to this work and want to hone your skills, just like any apprentice. ...