The Power of Coaching Presence
One of the most significant lessons I learned during my coaching diploma was the importance of coaching presence. Before starting the program, I thought effective coaching was all about asking the right questions and guiding clients toward solutions. While those elements are important, I quickly realized that how I show up in a session—my presence, energy, and ability to truly listen—plays an equally crucial role.
What Is Coaching Presence?
Coaching presence is the ability to be fully engaged, focused, and connected with a client in the moment. It’s about creating a space where they feel seen, heard, and understood without distraction or judgment. This presence fosters trust, encourages deeper reflection, and allows meaningful insights to emerge.
Some key elements of coaching presence include:
✅ Deep Listening – Being fully attuned to what’s said and unsaid.
✅ Non-Verbal Awareness – Body language, eye contact, and energy.
✅ Emotional Regulation – Staying grounded and calm, even in difficult conversations.
✅ Holding Space – Allowing silence and reflection without rushing to fill the gaps.
✅ Authenticity – Bringing your real self into the conversation, without trying to perform a ‘perfect’ coaching role.
My Personal Breakthroughs in Coaching Presence
During the diploma program, I received eye-opening feedback about my presence in sessions. In one of my first observed coaching exercises, I was told that while my questions were strong, I was subconsciously fidgeting, playing with my thumbs, and recapping everything the client said. This made me realize I wasn’t fully in the moment—I was thinking ahead rather than deeply listening.
Another key moment came when I was coached in front of the group. I expected it to be a simple demonstration, but when an unexpectedly emotional topic surfaced, I wasn’t prepared to process it in that setting. It was a powerful reminder that coaching presence isn’t just about managing the client’s emotions but also being aware of my own.
Through practice and feedback, I began to refine my approach:
✔ I became more aware of my body language, mimicking the open and engaged posture of experienced coaches I observed.
✔ I learned to embrace silence, allowing clients the space to process their thoughts rather than jumping in too quickly.
✔ I started using grounding techniques—like deep breathing and visualization—before sessions to ensure I was fully present.
Practical Tips for Strengthening Your Coaching Presence
If you’re looking to improve your presence in coaching (or any leadership conversations), here are some techniques that helped me:
🔹 Check Your State Before a Session – Take a few minutes to clear your mind, focus on your breathing, and let go of any distractions.
🔹 Listen with Your Whole Self – Instead of planning your next question, focus entirely on the person in front of you. Observe their body language, tone, and pauses.
🔹 Embrace Silence – Resist the urge to fill gaps in conversation. Some of the best insights emerge in quiet moments.
🔹 Adjust Your Posture – Sit forward, maintain open body language, and mirror your client’s energy to create a sense of connection.
🔹 Reflect After Each Session – Ask yourself: Was I truly present? Did I get distracted? What can I improve next time?
Final Thoughts
Coaching presence isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being fully there for your client. When we cultivate true presence, we create an environment where transformation can happen—not because we’re leading, but because we’re holding space for others to find their own answers.
What are your experiences with coaching presence? Have you ever noticed the impact of body language, silence, or deep listening in your conversations? Let’s discuss!
