Introduction to Note Taking
Taking notes can be a distraction from being fully present with clients. By focusing on writing rather than listening, coaches risk recording facts rather than the key themes. They may also miss some interesting non-verbal cues by concentrating on writing rather than the client.
Taking notes can also formalise and slow down the interaction and this may not be helpful if the aim is to develop rapport and encourage responsiveness and spontaneity in the sessions.
Clients may also be concerned about what the coach is noting down, especially where there may be concerns about confidentiality and reporting. This may lead to clients holding back in the session.
By taking notes, coaches can also become responsible for identifying the significant points and developments in the session rather than the client. This can also move the ownership and power in evaluating the impact of the session, from the client to the coach.
However, notes are an invaluable resource, particularly when working with a client over a period of time. Without a record of the sessions, it is very difficult to trace the client’s development, change, successes and achievements. A record of the actual language and images used by clients in different sessions can point to recurring issues, themes, perceptions and perspectives and the client’s shifts over time. Notes of early sessions can also provide reminders of the bigger picture and initial aims identified by clients.
Notes also provide a record of the coaching process which can be used for professional reflection and to inform the development of the coach’s coaching practice and skills.
The benefits of taking notes during the session are that the notes are often a helpful reminder to the client of the content and outcome of the coaching session:
- It reminds both parties of their commitments and the associated actions
- It brings back to them the sense and atmosphere of the session
- It acts as a checklist for the client and a reminder for the coach
- It means that they are more likely to take ACTION
- The notes act as a basis for catching up at the next coaching session
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