Frequently Asked Questions About Coaching

What is coaching?

Coaching is a collaborative process designed to empower individuals and organizations to achieve their goals, overcome challenges, and unlock their potential. It creates awareness, generates insights, and fosters personal and professional growth. Coaching is not therapy, consulting, or mentoring; it’s a partnership that helps clients discover their solutions and build sustainable strategies for success.

How does coaching work?

Coaching typically involves structured conversations in which the coach asks powerful questions, actively listens, and helps the client clarify their goals and create actionable plans. Kevin uses the LEADS Coaching Model (Listen, Explore, Align, Develop, Sustain), which provides a structured yet flexible framework to ensure coaching sessions are meaningful and results-driven.

What can I expect from a coaching session?

During a coaching session, you can expect:

• A confidential and supportive space to explore your goals, challenges, and opportunities.

• Thought-provoking questions that encourage deep reflection and self-awareness.

• Practical strategies and action plans that align with your objectives.

• Accountability and follow-up to track progress and ensure success.

Sessions are tailored to your unique needs, and the focus is always on empowering you to achieve your goals.

Who can benefit from coaching?

Coaching is ideal for:

Individuals: Leaders, managers, or emerging professionals looking to refine their skills, navigate challenges, or achieve personal growth.

Organizations: Teams and leadership groups seeking to improve collaboration, alignment, and effectiveness.

Boards: Non-profits, businesses, and schools aiming to enhance governance and strategic decision-making.

Whether you’re an individual leader or part of a team, coaching can help you achieve clarity and create meaningful impact.

What are the ethical principles of coaching?

At Illume Leadership, Kevin adheres to the ICF Code of Ethics, which ensures professionalism, confidentiality, and respect in all coaching interactions. Key principles include:

Confidentiality: All coaching conversations are strictly confidential unless otherwise agreed upon by the client or required by law.

Client Autonomy: The client is responsible for their own decisions and outcomes, with the coach facilitating insight and action.

Integrity: The ICF Code of Ethics requires that coaching services be delivered honestly, transparently, and with the highest ethical standards.

Respect: Coaching respects the client’s values, goals, and unique journey, ensuring a non-judgmental and supportive environment.

How long does a coaching engagement last?

The length of a coaching engagement depends on your goals and needs. Some clients prefer short-term coaching to address a specific challenge, while others benefit from ongoing sessions to support long-term development. Kevin will work with you to create a coaching plan that fits your timeline and objectives.

How is coaching different from consulting or therapy?

Coaching: Focuses on empowering the client to generate solutions through reflection and action.

Consulting: Involves providing expert advice and solutions to specific problems.

Therapy: Addresses emotional healing and mental health challenges, often focusing on past experiences.

Coaching is forward-focused, goal-oriented, and centers on personal and professional growth.

How do I know if coaching is right for me or my organization?

Coaching may be right for you if:

• You’re looking to gain clarity on your goals and priorities.

• You want to enhance leadership skills or team performance.

• You’re facing challenges that require fresh perspectives and strategies.

• You’re committed to growth, accountability, and meaningful change.

If unsure, Kevin offers a complimentary consultation to discuss your needs and determine how coaching can best support you.

How do I get started?

Starting your coaching journey is simple:

Schedule a Consultation: Book an introductory session with Kevin to discuss your goals and explore how coaching can help.

Develop a Coaching Plan: Work with Kevin to create a customized coaching plan tailored to your needs.

Start Your Journey: Begin your coaching sessions and take the first step toward achieving your goals.