Every thriving coaching relationship begins with a conversation about how the relationship itself will work. Before the first goal is set or the first insight unfolds, great coaches take time to co-create clear norms and expectations. Why? Because clarity builds trust, and trust fuels transformation. When expectations are explicit, clients relax into the process, knowing where the boundaries and possibilities lie. When they’re not, confusion, frustration, or disappointment quietly erode progress. In coaching, clarity is kindness.

The Power of Shared Agreements
A coaching relationship isn’t a transaction—it’s a partnership. The International Coaching Federation emphasizes that establishing and maintaining agreements is foundational to ethical, effective coaching. Agreements define not just what coaching will address, but how both coach and client will engage throughout the journey.These early conversations create alignment, prevent misunderstanding, and model the self-responsibility coaching promotes.

The Coach’s Role

• Creates and maintains a safe, confidential space.
• Listens deeply and asks questions that evoke insight.
• Challenges and supports without judgment.
• Facilitates accountability and celebrates growth.
• Respects the client as resourceful, creative, and capable.

The Client’s Role

• Brings openness, honesty, and commitment to growth.
• Chooses topics and sets the agenda.
• Reflects, experiments, and reports learning between sessions.
• Accepts ownership for results and next steps.
• Provides feedback on what’s working or needs adjusting.

When both roles are clearly understood, responsibility is balanced and engagement thrives.

The first coaching session (or intake call) should include these foundational conversations:

• Purpose and Desired Outcomes. What does the client want to achieve? Define measurable goals and overall intentions.
• Roles and Responsibilities. Clarify the coach’s role as partner—not advisor or therapist—and the client’s role as leader of their own growth.
• Confidentiality and Ethics. Review what remains private and any exceptions (e.g., legal obligations).
• Session Logistics. Frequency, duration, location or platform, cancellation policies, and communication preferences.
• Measures of Success. Discuss how progress will be recognized—through reflection, feedback, or tangible results.
• Feedback and Boundaries. Agree on how to exchange feedback honestly and respectfully throughout the partnership.

Healthy coaching relationships evolve. Regularly revisit expectations and progress:

• “How’s the process working for you so far?”
• “Are we focusing on what matters most?”
• “What pace feels right for you now?”

These short conversations keep the coaching rhythm adaptive and transparent.

Finishing strong is as important as starting strong. Use final sessions to:

• Review original goals and progress.
• Identify insights and new habits.
• Celebrate achievements.
• Discuss ongoing practices to sustain growth.
• Invite feedback about the coaching experience.

Closure honors the client’s journey and reinforces accountability and confidence.

CLOSING THOUGHT
Coaching is a relationship of choice, courage, and clarity. Setting norms and expectations early honors that relationship and sets the stage for breakthrough results.
“Great coaching partnerships aren’t found—they’re forged through conversation.” –
When you begin with clarity, you build the trust that makes transformation possible.