You're struggling to connect with a guarded client. How can you break through their barriers and build trust?

L'écoute et la synchronisation avec le coaché est importante pour établir une connexion qui va permettre petit à petit d'établir un climat de confiance.

A guarded client is one that doesn't trust you...yet. I insist a lot on niching for example. But this can be a really big and scary step to take for my coachees. I will not hesitate to take out time of our coaching journey to sit and just listen, ask simple questions, without putting any pressure.

In my experience, building rapport with a guarded client starts with creating a safe space where they feel truly heard and understood. Using trauma energetics healing methods, I focus on active listening, allowing clients to express their thoughts and feelings without judgment. I pay close attention to both their words and nonverbal cues, which often reveal deeper emotions. Reflecting back what they share helps validate their experiences and emotions. This approach opens the door for deeper conversations and establishes a foundation of trust, essential for meaningful progress.

To connect with a guarded client, it's important to begin by establishing a warm rapport. Show genuine interest in their thoughts and feelings, and listen carefully to both their words and the silences in between, as nonverbal cues can often reveal deeper insights. Use reflective listening to gently validate their emotions, demonstrating that you truly understand and appreciate their perspective without any judgment. This nurturing connection lays the groundwork for more meaningful conversations and is essential in building their trust. By consistently approaching them with kindness and empathy, you create a safe space that encourages the client to open up over time.

Vertrauen baut sich auf, wenn eine wertschätzende Verbindung besteht und dadurch eine geschützter Raum entsteht, in dem sich der Coachee und der Coach bewegen. Die Aufgabe und Verantwortung diesen Raum aufzubauen, liegt beim Coach. Dazu ist es wichtig, den Rahmen, der auch durch die Grenzen des Coachee mit definiert wird, frühzeitig abzustecken. Und ganz wichtig, den vereinbarten Rahmen auch stets schützen und respektieren. Zu keinem Zeitpunkt darf er verletzt werden, da ansonsten aufgebautes Vertrauen verletzt und damit sofort verloren geht.

What I have noticed when working with a guarded client is that allowing them to sit quietly in silence can be incredibly powerful. In trauma energetics, it's important to ask the client for permission to explore their thoughts and feelings and let them know they can always say no. By giving them space to process without pressure, you respect their boundaries and create a safe environment where they feel in control. This approach helps the client feel comfortable and secure, knowing that their pace is honored. As trust builds, they may naturally open up, sharing more when they are ready.

Guarded clients often have strong boundaries, and it's important to approach these with gentle respect. For example, if a client hesitates to discuss their past experiences, acknowledge their comfort zone by saying, "I understand if you’re not ready to share that yet." This lets them know you honor their limits and understand their need for control. It creates a nurturing environment where they can engage at their own pace. While it's still important to address challenging topics, do so with kindness. As trust blossoms, they may gradually feel more comfortable exploring beyond their boundaries, allowing for deeper connections and meaningful discussions over time.

Une écoute empathique, franche et transparente va permettre au coaché de se livrer afin de l'accompagner vers la construction de ses objectifs.

One of the things that has helped me in working with guarded clients is setting clear expectations while considering their unique perspectives. I always involve the client in creating the plan, rather than dictating it. Instead of telling them what will happen, I start by asking about their expectations and how they envision the experience. This dialogue allows me to share my process in a way that aligns with their needs, making the journey collaborative. By doing this, the client feels more engaged and respected, knowing that their input shapes the direction we take together.

Empathy is incredibly important when connecting with someone who is guarded. Take the time to see the world through their eyes, even if your perspectives differ. Gently acknowledge their struggles and the strength it takes to face them. For example, you might say, "I can sense how difficult this must be for you," which shows that you truly care about their experience. When clients feel genuinely understood, they are more likely to trust you and engage in the coaching process. Remember, empathy is about building a connection rather than trying to solve their problems; it’s about being there for them as they navigate their journey with kindness and support.

I've noticed that clients are often skeptical about working with a business coach, especially if they've previously felt let down by unmet expectations. In my coaching practice, I take a different approach by consistently tracking and sharing progress with my clients. This ongoing feedback helps them see tangible results from their efforts, providing a clear sense of achievement. I also show them where they aren't getting results because they aren't doing the work. It's key for them to see that when they take inspired action, progress is made, and when they don’t, progress slows down. They are always in control of their journey, and this awareness empowers them to stay on course and move steadily toward their goals.