In coaching, softeners are a a few words you use just before asking a difficult question to literally ‘soften the blow’.By using a softener, you’re subconsciously preparing them for a potentially difficult shift in the conversation’s energy. Using softeners is therefore a great way to maintain rapport with your clients while asking the challenging questions that are going to move them forwards.
Here are 7 softeners to get you started:
- I’m curious… (keeping it open and light)
- Just for a moment… (you won’t have to do this for long)
- Let’s suppose… (let’s play here)
- I was wondering… (keeping it open and light)
- Help me out here… (you’ll be doing me a favour)
- Would it be OK to play with this? (asking their permission)
- Let me ask you this… (asking their permission more forcefully)
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I love the brief suggestions and ideas for “how” to work and “be” with clients. I am brand-new to coaching, and this is very practical stuff that really helps me. Thanks so much!
Hi Jacki, Thanks for your comments! I’m trying to make sure the articles are short AND sweet – ie. with useful, usable content. I’ve discovered that it’s HARDER to write shorter, punchier articles than longer ones! But that is a challenge I’m enjoying. ANYhow, thanks so much for your comment – it’s very encouraging that we’re on the right track! Warmly, EL