In my experience, when a client is resistant to new coaching techniques, it’s important to meet them with patience, curiosity, and understanding. I start by exploring their resistance, as it often stems from fear, past experiences, or discomfort with the unfamiliar. By creating a safe, non-judgmental space, I validate their concerns while gently highlighting how the new techniques align with their goals. I introduce the techniques gradually, breaking them into smaller, manageable steps so they feel less overwhelming. This approach fosters trust, allowing clients to engage at their own pace and experience the benefits firsthand, breaking through resistance naturally.

It is very understandable when clients are resistant to new coaching methods, especially when they wonder whether the new method will work. I feel the best way is to share case studies with them (with names being confidential of course). If referrals are possible, then this is a sure shot. If I have gone through a situation using the method, all the better as sharing this will elevate their trust and confidence. Question to them: "This is a tried and tested method. How do you know it won't work?" Clients will eventually come around and take the plunge.

When clients resist new techniques, I try to listen to their concerns and understand their feelings. For example, one client was hesitant to try time-blocking to manage their schedule. I acknowledged their doubts and suggested starting small and using it for just one day. Gradually, I introduced it step by step, focusing on their most important tasks. I also shared a success story from another client to show the benefits. This approach helped them feel comfortable and open to trying the new method.

Pour moi, la résistance d’un client a une bonne raison d’exister. C’est une partie souvent inconsciente de lui qui cherche à faire passer un message, exprimer une peur. Elle a donc besoin d’être écoutée et comprise. Ce n’est qu’une fois que le client peut se dire « oui, c’est cela qui se joue en moi » et «  j’ai le droit de ressentir cela » que le travail peut commencer.

Resistance is a welcome guest. It offers great opportunity to help my client connect with deeper layers of themself and find the path to wherever her or she wishes to go.. and the method will come from my client. Not from me.

In my particular field, hesitation and resistance to new methods is very common. But, the first question I ask the client is: how have the other techniques worked for you? And, Is the reticence due to lack of familiarity with the technique or because of a negative idea about it? After I've received an answer, I can start to provide referrals, background knowledge of its principles, and a short simulation of what the technique entails, as well as clear disclaimers of what it isn't. So much of the opinion is formed on hearsay and supposition, that one needs to set aside time to make sure that the client understands why I devised that method.

If we encounter client resistance, we practice empathetic listening, validate concerns, demonstrate technique's value through micro-experiments, and collaboratively adapt our approach to align with client's comfort and goals. We should make our clients comfortable by explaining to him/her the significance of our coaching style. And at the beginning of our sessions we should make sure whether our client is coachable or not.

When a client resists new coaching techniques, it’s often a sign of deeper concerns, such as fear of failure, discomfort with change, or a lack of trust in the process. In order to move forward, we need to get to the root cause of the concern. I start by asking “What about this technique feels challenging or uncomfortable for you?” or “What’s your biggest worry about trying this approach?”. Then we use the answer as a trailhead.

Resistance often comes from fear or misunderstanding. I start by listening deeply to understand their concerns and creating a safe space for open dialogue. I then connect the new techniques to their goals, showing how these methods align with what they want to achieve. Sharing success stories of others who benefited from similar approaches can also build trust. Patience is key because change takes time, and building rapport helps ease resistance. Coaching is a partnership, and together, we can find a path that works best for them.

When I sense some kind of resistance, I don’t try to push further. I understand that my client is the one who guides my path, and in that case, I ask if they want to continue or not. I deeply respect their opinion.