Virtual Coaching or Face-to-Face?
In this article, we’ll talk about the pros and cons of both virtual coaching and face-to-face coaching. I’ve heard gurus on both sides of the equation give compelling arguments about the merits of the one they espouse.
We’re not here to make a decision for you. Instead, this information is presented to help you make up your own mind. These pros and cons contain observations we’ve made in our years of coaching.
Virtual Coaching
This is where you meet a potential client through a communication channel (perhaps an online medium or simply over the phone).
Pros:
* You can meet with anyone, no matter where they are.
* The tools today are inexpensive (i.e. Webex) or even free (i.e. Skype).
* Many people coach virtually so it’s not an unusual proposition.
* We’ve found that people are generally on-time for virtual coaching more often than they are with face-to-face coaching.
* You can stack your meetings one after the other.
Cons:
* Some would say that you cannot make a true connection with someone without meeting them face to face.
* Potential technological malfunctions can disrupt the coaching time.
Face-to-Face Coaching
This is where you and your client meet in person.
Pros:
* You can build rapport a little more quickly and use visual cues (such as body language) to help you understand your client.
* You always choose to continue alternate your coaching between in-person and virtual.
Cons:
* You are limited to a market who can travel to see you (or whom you travel to see).
* You may be required to have your own office if that’s where people meet.
* Your marketing may need to include local channels (which can cost more).
* We’ve found that people are generally on-time for virtual coaching more often than they are with face-to-face coaching.
* There is sometimes travel time in between each meeting.
I’m sure we’ve missed some important points. So please feel free to add your own ideas in the comments section. And tell us, do you prefer one over the other?
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