What's the optimum size of a group coaching session?

I often get asked the question - what's the optimum size of a group coaching session? I'm afraid that there is no one single response. One of my values in running programs is interactivity, so I tend to limit most of my group coaching programs run by phone to 8 participants for an hour - 75 minute session. This allows for discussion amongst individual clients, and both individual and group work on the phone.

In looking at your own programs and identifying the ideal group size, consider the following:

• What is your company and coaching philosophy?
• Is the program in person? By phone?
• How long is the program running - individual sessions, number of sessions?
• What are the goals of the program?
• What do your clients expect? What will benefit them most?
• What do you want clients to take away? To experience in your program?
• How have you priced the program? What is your financial bottom line?

Considering these questions will support you in coming up with your own optimum group coaching session size.

Group Coaching Essentials Program starts March 7th

Are you looking to develop or refine your own Group Coaching Programs? The next Group Coaching Essentials program will be starting on March 7th. This teleseminar program is held on Tuesday evenings from 7-8:15 pm (EST) on March 7, 21, 28 and April 11th.

This program is designed for coaches who want to expand their practice to include group coaching. The course covers the nuts and bolts of Group Coaching and will provide you with new tools and structures to create your own Group Coaching Programs. Topics include:

• The Essentials of Group Coaching - What is it? How does it differ from one-on-one coaching? Adult Learning Principles. Experiential Education. Best practices in group coaching
• The Nuts and Bolts of developing Your Group Coaching Program: How Tos, Templates, Techniques
• Marketing Your Group Coaching Program
• Filling Your Toolbox: Exercises and other resources for group coaching

The cost of the program is $225 USD and includes four 75 minute group calls, a follow-up group call, pre and post course 1-1 meetings with the course facilitator, and a comprehensive manual for your reference and use in group coaching programs.

Course size is limited to 8 coaches so please register early!

To find out more, or to register, please contact me, Jennifer at jennifer@potentialsrealized.com or call me toll free at 1-866-217-1960. Your own group coaching program will be ready to roll out by the spring. Think about that!

I look forward to hearing from you.

Jennifer

Potentials Realized: www.potentialsrealized.com

A Personal Welcome to the Group Coaching Ins and Outs Blog

How To....Set Up A Teleseminar Bridge Line

Throughout the Group Coaching Essentials program (stay tuned...a new program is starting in a few weeks) I get a lot of coaches who ask, "How do I set up a Teleseminar bridge line so I can run my group coaching programs by phone?".

I offer my group coaching programs both by phone and in person. Each has its advantages and disadvantages (more on this later). Over the past year, I've been focusing more of my time on phone based programs, particularly as I have an 8-month old son. I really love the diversity of phone based programs - having participants call in from all over the world and from so many different time zones.

There are a number of ways you can arrange for your own teleseminar bridge lines. Some are at cost, some free.

If you are a member of the ICF (International Coach Federation) one of the member benefits has been free bridgeline accessibility for a couple hours each month. You can also check out www.freeconference.com. I've been using FreeConference.com for the last two years and have never had a problem. It's a great service.

If you are looking to develop your own teleseminar or phone based group coaching program, and want some tips and tools to support you, along with an accountability structure, you will want to consider the Group Coaching Essentials program. This, and much, much more is covered during the one-month program. Later this week, I'll be posting some of the comments from the January coaches who just completed the program, along with the next course dates which start soon!