Is interrupting ever a good thing in coaching?
Many of us have been taught that interrupting is rude, disrespectful, or unhelpful, but what if the right kind of interruption could be transformational for a client?
In this episode, we explore the complex role of interruptions in coaching. We often get asked in coaching supervision whether interrupting a client is okay, or if it’s a sign of being too directive. The truth is, it depends. Interrupting can be incredibly useful when done with intention and in service of the client. It can be a tool to help clients shift patterns, refocus, and move towards their goals.
We discuss different types of interruptions, from gentle redirections to stronger pattern-breaking interventions, and how to contract with clients upfront to make sure interruptions are welcomed, not resented. We also highlight the importance of rapport, as well as when to hold space in silence instead of stepping in.
By the end of this episode, you’ll feel more confident about when and how to use interruptions in coaching, ensuring they enhance rather than disrupt the coaching process.
Interrupting can be a valuable coaching skill when used intentionally and in service of the client. Whether it’s a gentle redirection or a bold wake-up call, the key is to use it with awareness, rapport, and purpose.
If you want to refine your coaching skills and explore how different techniques, including interruptions, can enhance your practice, check out our Coaching Training Quiz at www.mycoachingcourse.com.
Key Lessons Learned
- Interruptions are not inherently bad; They can help clients stay on track and challenge unhelpful patterns.
- The key question is: Who is the interruption serving? If it’s for the client’s benefit, it can be a valuable tool.
- Interrupting can be part of a coaching contract; Discussing it upfront ensures clients are comfortable with the approach.
- Some clients want to be interrupted; They may even request it in pre-coaching questionnaires, especially if they know they tend to talk in circles.
- Strong rapport allows for more direct interruptions; Clients who trust you are more open to challenge.
- Silence is also a form of interruption; Holding space instead of jumping in can be just as powerful.
- Interruptions should be purposeful; Whether it’s to redirect, challenge, or highlight a pattern, it should always serve the coaching process.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use Interruptions in Coaching
- Decide Whether an Interruption is Needed
- Is the client looping?
- Are they going off-track from their goal?
- Are they avoiding something important?
- Frame Interruptions as a Coaching Tool
- In the chemistry session, discuss whether they find interruptions helpful.
- Use pre-coaching questionnaires to gauge their communication style.
- Use Gentle Interruptions for Redirection
- If a client is spending too much time on updates instead of their goal, you might say:
"I’m noticing that we’ve spent a lot of time on updates. You also mentioned you want to focus on [goal]. What would be most useful right now?"
- Use Stronger Interruptions to Break Patterns
- If a client is stuck in repetitive thinking, a direct approach can help:
"I’m going to stop you there. We’ve had this same conversation in three sessions now. What’s keeping you stuck?"
- Ensure Rapport is Strong Before Using Direct Interruptions
- If a client trusts you, they’ll be more receptive to a bold challenge.
- Be aware of cultural and personal sensitivities; not all clients will react well to strong interventions.
- Balance Interruptions with Silence
- If a client is processing something deep, silence might be the best approach instead of interruption.
- Debrief After Using Interruptions
- At the end of the session, ask:
"Was my approach today, including any interruptions, helpful for you?"
Timestamps
- 00:13 – 00:46: Introduction; why interruptions are a powerful coaching tool
- 00:47 – 02:07: The common fear that interrupting is rude
- 02:34 – 03:55: The difference between supportive and disruptive interruptions
- 04:21 – 05:44: How interruptions can actually build rapport
- 06:13 – 07:39: Examples of when interruptions are necessary
- 08:09 – 09:34: Contracting with clients; why discussing interruptions upfront matters
- 10:03 – 11:46: Pattern-breaking interruptions; how to help clients get unstuck
- 12:16 – 13:59: Using silence as an alternative to interruption
- 14:39 – 15:59: How interruptions can validate client achievements
- 16:27 – 17:55: When interruptions backfire; how to recover if a client reacts negatively
- 18:50 – 19:49: Practical strategies for refining your use of interruptions
- 20:17 – 20:35: Final reflections and key takeaways
Keywords:
How to use interruptions in coaching, Coaching techniques for managing client talk time, Coaching communication skills, When to interrupt a coaching client, How to redirect a client in coaching, Coaching techniques for breaking thought loops, The role of silence in coaching, Coaching contract and client expectations, Managing difficult coaching conversations, How to keep coaching sessions focused
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