Frequently Asked Questions
Getting started
“Where are you located?”
I am in Southern California but coaching sessions are held by phone, so proximity is not necessary. As long as our time zones have overlapping business hours, we can work together.
For in-person training and speaking, I can travel to your campus or conference venue.
If you want in-person one-on-one day-long coaching, we can meet in Temecula, CA (or I may be able to travel to your location for an additional fee).
“How do I sign up to work with you?”
First, let’s schedule a call to meet and find out if we are a good fit. Click here to make an appointment for a complimentary call. The automated system will direct you to a page to read and a questionnaire to fill out before we talk.
If we decide to work together, I will send you a coaching agreement for you to sign electronically. We’ll compare our calendars and get you scheduled in the next few days.
About appointment types
“I’d like to speak with you. What type of appointment should I make?”
It depends on the purpose of the appointment.
If you’re considering signing up for a coaching program, you can schedule a complimentary 20 to 30 minutes call here to discuss your goals and how I can help you.
If you prefer to have a full hour to get to know each other and discuss your situation and my approach in more details, you can purchase an introductory 1-hour session ($150) here. If at the end of the call you decide to start working with me, the $150 already paid will be deducted from the price of the coaching program.
If you are not interested in a coaching program and only want to purchase a one-time coaching session, please go to this page.
For public speaking and training inquiries, please go to this page.
If you have questions not related to working together, please send us a message using the contact page. Thank you.
About coaching sessions
“How long are coaching sessions?”
Sessions are scheduled for 1 hour. After 50 minutes or so, we start wrapping up by discussing lessons learned and next action steps. We always start and end on time.
Do you use phone or video?
Many of us have “zoom fatigue” so coaching sessions are conducted over the phone. But please make sure to be in a room where you have privacy and can take notes. Do not call while driving.
If your coaching session requires the use of video (e.g., preparing for a job interview on zoom, we’ll meet on zoom too so that I can provide feedback on your facial expressions and body language).
“Can I get a recording of the coaching sessions?”
Yes, absolutely, you will receive an mp3 file at the end of every coaching session.
“I see on social media that we have connections in common. How do I know that what I share with you will remain confidential?”
I never discuss anything that any client says to me with anyone else. Knowing where to draw the line is very subjective, so my solution is to say absolutely nothing. I won’t even mention who is or is not a client of mine. Your secrets are safe with me.
“How often will we schedule sessions?”
The frequency of sessions depends on your goals and your availability. We will discuss my recommendation during our initial complimentary call. Typically, clients choose 3 or 4 sessions per month. Let’s talk.
“How much work do I need to do in between appointments?”
Very little! In most cases, your “homework” will not be additional work but simply to implement the strategies we discussed instead of reverting back to old habits. Occasionally, I will ask you to reflect on something and write some notes but it won’t take more than 10 minutes per week.
The day before each appointment, I will ask you to email me a brief update but that only takes about 5 minutes. Having no free time is not a reason to postpone coaching, in fact, it’s a reason to start right away!
About payments
“Who pays for coaching, is it me or my employer?”
It depends. About half of my clients pay with their own money because they know it’s a smart investment, and half get their executive coaching paid directly by their institution. Check with your supervisor to find out if there are professional development funds available. If you choose to have your employer pay for your coaching, make sure you are prepared to tell your supervisor what your coaching goals are and how coaching will benefit your organization.
“Do you take checks or credit cards?”
Either one. Typically, organizations send checks and private clients pay by credit card, Zelle, or PayPal.
“Do you offer monthly payments?”
Yes, you don’t have to pay in full for your coaching program. Monthly payments are available. You can see program rates on this page.