The first moments

Abstract

Whilst there is an emerging literature within the field of coaching psychology concerning ‘critical moments’, there is surprisingly little theory and research on the power and effect of the first moments of a coaching session. Whilst de Haan (2020) has considered these first moments from the perspective of the client, this paper looks at the first moments from the perspective of the coach, and how the relationship may be impacted or determined by the moment of the meeting.This paper is a shortened version of the author’s dissertation for Asbridge’s MSC in Executive Coaching. Using the author’s reflective practice case study, this paper describes the author’s personal insight on his coaching practice, including the powerful observations and learnings from the first moments of a coaching session. These often-neglected moments offer insights to the coach’s own emotions and state of mind with respect to the relationship with the coaching client.