Here are a few tips and tricks for being successful and getting the most out of your training experience:
COME TO CLASS PREPARED
Be sure to read and listen to the necessary material ahead of class, including your syllabus which has important information such as attendance policies and how to make up for absences.
Your Coach Portal is full of supplemental audio, video, and PDF files as well, so take full advantage of these materials. You will get so much more out of the training if you come to class with questions and thoughts from the reading and recordings.
Don’t hold back. Your practice sessions during class are an opportunity for you to play, take risks, and experiment with your coaching.
PRACTICE CLIENTS
Working with practice clients allows coaches to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting. This hands-on experience fosters confidence, sharpens active listening abilities, and enhances the art of asking powerful questions.
Start looking for a practice client early. Week 8 (which is when your first overview becomes due) will come sooner than you think, and it is helpful to start looking for a practice client early on. Tap into your network, and begin to see what options you may have sooner rather than later.
CONNECT
Connect with your fellow coaches. Although you may be hundreds (or even thousands) of miles from your fellow coaches, technology has an amazing way of bringing people together.
Do not hesitate to contact your classmates outside of class to arrange additional practice sessions or simply to discuss the work you all are doing. Being connected to others who share your passion and are in your same line of work is invaluable and can enhance your training experience.
POWER HOURS
Open to both coaches-in-training and alumni, Power Hours provide a dynamic platform for continuous learning, meaningful connections, and robust discussions. Coaches are able to practice coaching and being coached as an additional resource outside of class, provided by CTEDU. Additionally, these sessions can count toward making up absences, as well as bartered hours for your ICF client log.