How to Make the Most of Coaching

Your Guide to Preparing, Engaging, and Growing Through the VEST Coaching Experience.

Coaching is a powerful tool for growth—but its impact depends on how you show up. Whether you're navigating a career transition, seeking clarity on a decision, or simply need a sounding board, this guide will help you approach coaching conversations with purpose.

Before You Begin: What Coaching Is—and What It Isn’t

Coaching is a collaborative, future-focused conversation that helps you uncover clarity, explore possibilities, and take purposeful action. It’s not therapy, consulting, or mentorship—your coach won’t tell you what to do or solve problems for you. Instead, they’ll ask thoughtful questions, listen deeply, and help you discover your own best path forward. Think of coaching as a thought partnership—one that empowers you to lead your own journey with greater confidence.

1. Get Clear on Your Intentions

Before the session, take a few minutes to reflect on what you’re hoping to gain. Ask yourself:

What challenge or decision am I currently facing?
Where do I feel stuck or uncertain?
What would make this conversation feel valuable?

Having a specific focus helps your coach better support you and ensures you walk away with greater clarity.

2. Come Prepared

Treat your coaching session like you would any important meeting:

Be on time and respectful of the coach’s schedule.
Bring relevant context or background (but be concise).
Write down a few key questions or topics in advance.

The more prepared you are, the more you’ll get out of the conversation.

3. Be Open and Reflective

VEST Coaches are here to listen, challenge your thinking, and help you unlock your own insights. You don’t need to have everything figured out—just come with a willingness to explore and be honest about where you are.

You might hear a perspective that stretches you. Stay curious and take it as an opportunity to grow.

4. Honor Time and Boundaries

Our coaches are VEST members who volunteer their time. Please:

Communicate in advance if you need to cancel or reschedule (ideally 48 hours ahead).
Avoid last-minute changes unless it’s unavoidable.
Be mindful of the session length and don’t go over time without checking in first.

Respect creates trust—and sets the tone for a productive relationship.

5. Take Ownership of Your Next Steps

After your session:

Reflect on key takeaways.
Decide what actions you want to take next.
Follow up with a thank-you note and, if relevant, an update on how things are going.

Coaching is not a one-time fix—it’s a step in your ongoing journey. The impact happens between the sessions, when you put insights into motion.

6. Keep It Confidential

What’s shared in a coaching session stays in the session. VEST Coaches create a safe, judgment-free space—and we ask you to honor that trust in return.

7. Don’t Forget to Be Grateful

A simple thank-you goes a long way. Your coach is volunteering their time and energy to support your growth—acknowledge that. Send a thoughtful follow-up message after your session to express appreciation, and let them know if their guidance made a difference. Gratitude not only strengthens relationships—it reinforces the spirit of generosity that makes our community thrive.

One last thing. VEST Coaches are members who generously offer their time to support other members. Many are also seasoned professionals and experts in their fields. While your coaching session is offered at no cost through the VEST network, any ongoing consulting or paid engagements should be arranged outside the VEST Coaching feature. This approach ensures transparency, respects professional boundaries, and preserves the integrity of our community—while still allowing space for meaningful collaboration when there’s a fit.

Remember: You’re Not Alone

Every professional hits moments of doubt, change, or transition. Reaching out for support is a strength—and at VEST, we’re building a culture where women help other women rise. Use this coaching opportunity with confidence, curiosity, and care.

#VESTHer