Reflections

Coaching clients may seek empowerment, but often lack the confidence to claim it. Coaches must avoid any transference

LINDSAY WITTENBERG Silence fell between us, and we were only at the beginning of the coaching session. My client looked expectantly at me, as though waiting for me to suggest what to do. Finally, she said: “I guess I’m expecting you to take the lead.” This leader had expressed a coaching objective to be more resourceful and resilient, and her 360-degree feedback had revealed a lack of confidence when she was with...