In a recent peer learning forum (over Zoom, naturally), I was discussing with a group of colleagues the art of conducting our client sessions over WhatsApp. Though most of us use telephone coaching, we do receive the occasional request for WhatsApp sessions. This can be for reasons of accessibility and convenience, but many young people simply don’t like talking on the phone. Fair enough, neither do I, and I’m 52. In such instances though, in this digital era, how, we wondered, do we avoid looking like a chatbot?
Technology has permeated every aspect of our lives, including our profession, accelerated by the impact of lockdowns in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. As coaches, we owe it to our clients to recognise and embrace the potential of new technologies. One significant impact of technology on coaching is the increased accessibility and convenience it offers: we can now connect with clients from around the world, opening up new opportunities for cross-cultural coaching and diverse perspectives. Technology has also revolutionised the way we deliver coaching. As Jonathan Passmore and David Tee outline in their lead article, online coaching platforms provide a host of features that support and streamline the coaching process, and enable us to create customised experiences that are tailored to each client’s specific needs and preferences.
"As coaches, we owe it to our clients to recognise and embrace the potential of new technologies"
Another significant impact of technology is the wealth of information and resources available to us. The internet has become a vast repository of knowledge, offering coaches a plethora of articles, papers and professional development resources, as evidenced by our own BACP online resources. Online communities, events and forums enable us to connect, share best practices, and engage in meaningful discussions. For the past three years, most of my professional development has taken place online (including my regular supervision). Technology empowers us to stay informed and connected, and this became essential during the pandemic.
At the same time, we must be mindful of the potential pitfalls that come with technology. The virtual nature of digital coaching can lead to a loss of human connection and intimacy, and it’s essential we find ways to establish rapport and build trust with clients in the virtual space. Active listening, empathy, and creating a safe environment are crucial elements that must be preserved, even in the digital realm. As my recent discussion with my coaching peers shows, our concern at being mistaken for a chatbot led us to explore how we emphasise our humanity when conducting sessions via WhatsApp, by mirroring client language in messages, or the careful use of emojis, for example. We must also ensure that we maintain ethical standards and protect client confidentiality in the digital age.
Technology has transformed the coaching landscape, offering new possibilities for growth and innovation. But we must strike a balance between embracing technology and maintaining the essential human connection that is at the heart of our work. By leveraging the benefits of technology while upholding ethical standards, we can harness its full potential and propel coaching into the future.
What are your thoughts? If you have an idea for an article on this or any other subject, drop me a line and let me know.
Diane Parker, coachingtoday.editorial@bacpco.uk
