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Frequently Asked Questions

What is coaching?

Leadership coaching is a trust-based relationship between coach and client.  It is a safe environment where we work together through leadership challenges while we further develop leadership capacity.  The potential impacts are personal growth and organizational results.

How does a consultant differ from a coach? 

Generally, a consultant is an expert in a particular topic or functional area and sets forth solutions or recommendations for improvements and may be involved in the implementation of the recommendations.  As consultants, we are often focused on an organization, while as coaches we are focused on an individual or a group of individuals.  As a coach, we work with a client to help the client arrive at the client’s own solutions to an issue or challenge. 

How does a mentor differ from a coach?

A mentor is frequently a role model or more senior person working with a less experienced person to impart knowledge or sharing of advice.  A coach, working with the client in a more “co-equal” relationship, uses both inquiry and advocacy to help the client arrive at the client’s own solutions to the issues at hand.

How is coaching different from counseling?

Counseling may delve into psychological or emotional problems and is focused on helping the client to heal from such problems.  Coaching, on the other hand, doesn’t involve diagnosing psychological or mental issues, but is focused on the coach working with the client on a “way forward” toward a desired goal or state.

How does leadership coaching support organizational performance?   

Leadership coaching is about helping clients build their leadership capacity—it’s about helping them explore, understand, and change their attitudes and behavior so that they can become more effective leaders.  More effective leaders are much more able to motivate and engage employees and teams to reach their highest levels of performance.  Higher performing individuals and teams translate into higher performing organizations that are able to achieve positive business results and meet or exceed their goals and mission. 

What is the typical length of a coaching engagement?

The length of coaching engagements varies widely according to the unique needs of the client and the frequency of the meetings.  In the early stages of the coaching engagement, we will estimate an approximate length for the engagement and reassess at various junctures if needed.

How long is a coaching session?

A coaching session is typically 1 hour.  However, we tailor the length of the coaching sessions to meet the needs of the client. 

Where does the coaching take place?

Coaching sessions typically take place at the client’s location or other agreed-on location.  Coaching can also take place over the telephone, especially when clients are located outside of the Washington Metro Area.

What type of experience do the coaches at RK West Coaching and Consulting have? 

The coaches have many years of experience in managerial, leadership, and executive roles as well as in program oversight roles.  The coaches have also graduated from an International Coach Federation-approved Accredited Coaching Training Program and have received a coaching certification from the International Coach Federation.  Learn more about our experience.