How I Build Trust and Rapport in Coaching Sessions

Dmeade
4 min readOct 2, 2024

As a coach and leader, one of the most important factors in my success has been the ability to build strong trust and rapport with the people I work with. For me, it all starts with sincerity. The people I coach and lead know that I genuinely care about their growth and well-being, and this authenticity has been key to creating meaningful relationships. In my coaching sessions, I focus on building that trust from day one, and here’s how I do it.

Show Genuine Care for Growth

One of the first things I do in any coaching relationship is make it clear that I’m invested in helping the person grow. This isn’t just something I say — it’s something I demonstrate through my actions and follow-ups. I always start by asking open-ended questions about their goals, challenges, and aspirations. From the start, I show them that I am sincerely interested in their success, and that sets the tone for everything that follows.

I’ve found that when people know you’re genuinely in their corner, they’re more open to feedback and guidance. I never rush these initial conversations. Instead, I take the time to listen and really understand what they want to achieve. That way, I can tailor my coaching to their unique needs, rather than giving generic advice.

Use Active Listening and Empathy

Trust can’t be built without listening — really listening. In every coaching session, I focus on active listening. I make sure to hear not just the words people are saying, but also the emotions and motivations behind them. I ask follow-up questions that let them know I’m paying attention and that I care about their perspective.

Empathy is a huge part of this. When someone shares a challenge or frustration, I try to put myself in their shoes, acknowledging their feelings and offering support rather than judgment. This creates a safe space where they feel comfortable opening up, which is critical for making real progress.

Show Sincerity in My Support

I’ve always believed that sincerity has to be backed up by action. If I say I’m going to help someone develop a new skill or overcome a challenge, I make sure to follow through. Whether that means setting up additional check-ins, providing resources, or just offering encouragement along the way, I do everything I can to show that I’m committed to their success.

One example of this is how I approach feedback. Instead of simply pointing out what someone can improve, I use specific examples and frame the conversation around growth. I often employ the “compliment sandwich” approach — highlighting what they’re doing well, addressing areas for improvement, and finishing on a positive note about their potential. This balance helps build trust because they know I’m invested in both their strengths and areas of opportunity.

Build Consistency Over Time

Building trust and rapport doesn’t happen overnight. It requires consistency. From my experience, having regular touchpoints — whether formal coaching sessions or informal check-ins — is essential. Consistency shows people that I’m not just a resource when things go wrong, but a partner throughout their journey.

Over time, this consistency builds deeper trust. The people I work with know they can rely on me not only for guidance but also for support whenever they need it. This has been key in fostering long-term relationships, and it’s something I continually work on.

Foster an Environment of Support and Growth

In every coaching session, I aim to create an environment where people feel supported and encouraged to grow. I focus on their strengths, celebrating their wins, and helping them see how far they’ve come. At the same time, I’m honest about areas for development, always framing feedback in a way that’s constructive and forward-looking.

What’s been most rewarding for me as a coach is seeing the trust that builds when people realize I’m genuinely invested in their success. When they know that I’ll move mountains for them if they’re committed to doing well, that’s when real progress happens.

Trust and Rapport Drive Impactful Coaching

Over the years, I’ve learned that the foundation of impactful coaching is trust and rapport, and that trust is built through genuine care, active listening, sincere support, and consistency. By showing that I’m truly invested in the people I coach, I create an environment where they feel safe, supported, and motivated to reach their goals.

It’s this authenticity and commitment that has allowed me to become not just a coach, but a partner in the growth and development of the people I work with. And that’s what makes all the difference.

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