Outcome-Based Coaching
Top 5 questions to ask before choosing an executive coach
If you're thinking about executive coaching to boost your career or work life, it's key to make sure your expectations line up with the coaching approach that’s the best fit for you. There are tons of different coaching styles and popular frameworks out there, so it’s a good idea to ask yourself: What do I really want to get out of this coaching experience?
Here are a few questions to help you figure out which type of coaching might work best for you:
Transactional |
Transformational |
|
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1. What do I need and what am I ready for? |
I need quick, specific guidance |
I’m looking for deeper, more meaningful explorations |
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2. What is my corporate culture? |
My work values direct outputs |
My work values innovative approaches |
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3. What is my timeline? |
I need help in the short-term |
I have time to experiment with actions |
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4. What do I think I need to address my challenge? |
A new skill |
A mindset shift |
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5. Am I new to coaching? |
Yes, I’m curious about the value of coaching |
No, my coach and I have an established relationship |
The difference between transactional coaching and transformational coaching
Transactional coaching
If you're looking for a quick fix or some help with a specific issue, transactional coaching could be just what you need. It’s great for situations like:
- A single coaching session to address a pressing challenge
- Some focused time to think through next steps for a problem you’re facing
- Getting an unbiased perspective on a particular issue with low context
- Actionable, short-term solutions for urgent goals
- Quick behavior changes that help you tackle immediate challenges
Transactional coaching is all about getting results fast. It’s designed to help you with specific, short-term goals and immediate challenges. You’ll focus on actions that need to be taken right now, and typically, this kind of coaching is shorter-term, aimed at solving one problem or improving performance in a particular area.
Transformational coaching
On the other hand, transformational coaching is a deeper, longer-term approach. It might be a good fit if you want to:
- Work with a coach over time to build a strong, ongoing partnership
- Create lasting change and develop over time with recurring themes in your growth
- Evolve as a leader, overcome self-doubt, or boost your confidence
- Become a more authentic, human-centered leader
- Feel empowered to solve problems and make decisions on your own after coaching ends
Transformational coaching is all about lasting change in how you think and lead. Unlike just picking up a few technical skills at a workshop, this type of coaching focuses on developing the deeper "soft" or "power" skills that will help you thrive long-term. It’s a longer process that helps you grow both professionally and personally, leading to more meaningful changes in your leadership style and overall approach to life.
Ready to try executive coaching?
Many of my clients are leaders in their fields, navigating the challenges of a rapidly changing business environment with both short-term and long-term demands. I tailor my coaching approach to meet clients where they are on their journey, offering a customized blend of transactional and transformational coaching based on their specific goals.
Am I the right coach for you?
Let’s connect over a remote coffee—no pressure, just a genuine 1:1 conversation about how I help leaders unlock their potential, from boardroom strategy to startup hustle.
Written by: Kristina Mausser, Certified Executive Coach
Edits generated by: ChatGPT, OpenAi. Edited for style and content.
