You're facing a client resistant to change. How can you build a strong rapport with them?

To build rapport with a client resistant to change, start by actively listening and acknowledging their concerns. Empathize with their feelings and avoid pushing too hard for immediate change. Instead, ask open-ended questions to understand their motivations and fears. Gradually introduce new perspectives that align with their values, and celebrate small wins to build trust. Show patience and flexibility, allowing them to feel in control of their journey. Establish a partnership where you’re both working toward the same goal, fostering a sense of collaboration rather than confrontation.

Trabajar en la creación de confianza con el cliente, para que exista ese espacio seguro. Comprender su realidad, sus juicios. Identificar la emoción y razones que están detrás de esa resistencia, trabajarla, para después transformarla en oportunidad de crecimiento. Co crear soluciones y verificar avances, de manera que sea consciente de los avances que vaya teniendo.

My experience goes like this: During the coaching process while we focus on the challenge or the issue raised by the coachee, there's a need to ask right questions to understand the reasons behind the persistence of the problem area. As, coachee understands the gaps during the intervention he/she may start realizing the need for the change. Even a small change can be motivating enough for the coachee which eventually starts to build that rapport with the coach. Most importantly, in each intervention Coachee must feel concern, valued, empowered and complete to continue with future interventions happily.

Listen, listen, listen! It is all about creating vibes with your client. Deep and focused listening is the right start of every connection. Then stay curious and understand where the resistance comes from. Sometimes it is about unjustified fears and barriers or avoidance of uncertainty. If you cannot ignite honest and sincere conversations then you can use others who do this better to help you. And remember if you are not connected to the core the engine won't start. Read. Reflect. Act.

1. Understand Concerns: Listen to their reservations and acknowledge their perspective. 2. Empathize: Show understanding and relate to their situation. 3. Communicate Benefits: Clearly explain how changes will benefit them. 4. Involve Them: Include them in the decision-making process. 5. Build Trust: Demonstrate reliability and consistency.