5.Test Assumptions: I believe making assumptions can be an enormous obstacle that gets in the way of the coach in relationships where the client is a citizen of a community, which is different from that of the coach. Both parties may have the same ‘mother tongue’ and yet have different ethical standards and cultural practices. Just because both parties speak the same language, for example, does not mean their cultural beliefs and ethical practices are the same. Becoming curious as a coach, thereby asking the client what is meant by certain comments or statements of beliefs, can open up the conversation and lead to greater understanding upon which to build a non-judging and open coaching relationship where the coach is intentionally able to support the client achieve their goals.
6.Respect Self and Client: To be effective as a coach, at all times during the coaching relationship you need to be able to hold both you and your client in high regard. Become aware of your emotional buttons being pushed by the client’s comments and how it makes you feel. How is this feeling impacting your ability to be effective as a coach? Reflect on any possible impact the client’s beliefs may have on you and your abilities will ensure you are respectful of both the client and yourself. To be otherwise could compromise the effectiveness of the coaching relationship. We need to be able to respect both parties if we are to be our best and support the client in being their best. If you find yourself unable to continue to be respectful of both parties, it may be time to refer the client to another coach.
7.Create a Judgment Free Space: Sometimes a client will offer a perspective that differs from our cultural or moral beliefs. Instead of judging them, create a space that allows you to be open to the cultural beliefs of the client, the ethical practices they adhere to. To be open in such situations, we need to suspend any judgments we may have around the differences between our practices and those of the client. To be effective as a coach, there is a need to be aware of how our cultural norms, our ethical standards may conflict with those of the client, ensuring we don’t judge them for differences that arise from their cultural norms.
8.Accept Such Differences: This can be challenging and yet within the context of the coaching relationship, if we cannot suspend judgment and accept such differences, we risk our capacity to support the client in realizing their potential.
9.Recognize and Manage Blind Spots Created by the Differences: A coach with feminist beliefs may not realize how their beliefs influence their approach to a client who does not acknowledge gender equality personally or within their culture. The ‘yes, but…’ of a conversation may interfere with creating a judgment free space needed for the client to move forward in a way that aligns with their beliefs.
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