Many leaders have never worked with a coach and are not sure what a session involves. Here is what a well-run session looks like, using the rhythm The Executive-Panel uses with every client.
What happens before the session?
You complete a short prep sheet: what happened since the last session, what is on your mind, and the decision or challenge you most want to work on. It takes a few minutes, and it means the session starts with what is real, not a recap.
How does the session open?
With last session's commitments. Did they get done? If not, what got in the way? Open items are carried forward, not dropped.
What is the scorecard?
You and your coach rate four areas of your leadership green, yellow, or red, and pressure-test the ratings together:
- Presence: how you are showing up under pressure.
- Leadership behavior: what you delegated, and what you took back.
- Strategic evaluation: working on the business, not just in it.
- Accountability: whether last session's commitments got done.
Ratings change week to week. The pattern over time is what matters.
What happens in the main part of the session?
This is where most of the time goes. You work through the issue that matters most right now: a hard decision, a difficult relationship, a new role, a team problem. The coach asks questions, challenges assumptions, and helps you think through options and consequences. The goal is a clear next move you believe in.
How does the session end?
With clear commitments that have owners and dates. Usually two or three, not ten. Small enough to actually do before the next session, and specific enough to check.
What happens between sessions?
You act on the commitments. That is where the change happens. The next prep sheet captures what happened, and the cycle repeats.
How long is a session?
Many sessions run about an hour. Coaching with The Executive-Panel is billed at $250 per hour.
How do you get the most from a session?
- Fill in the prep sheet honestly.
- Bring the real issue, not the safe one.
- Commit to less, and do it.
Read the full guide to executive coaching, learn about coaching for individual leaders, or book a free consultation.
Related reading
- What Is Executive Coaching? A Guide for Leaders Stepping Into Bigger Roles
- How Executive Coaching Keeps Leaders Accountable Between Sessions
Frequently asked questions
How often do executive coaching sessions happen?
Many leaders meet every week or every two weeks. The right cadence depends on how fast things are moving and what you are working on.
Do I need to prepare for an executive coaching session?
Yes, briefly. At The Executive-Panel, a short prep sheet before each session makes sure the time goes to what matters most.
What should I bring to my first coaching session?
Bring the two or three outcomes that would make coaching worth it, and the decision or challenge that is most on your mind.
