FAQs on Virtual 💻

These questions are specifically about Sanctus Virtual. If you’re curious in how this whole coaching thing works, in general, take a look here.

I don’t like the sound of it. Virtually connecting with my coach seems weird. Is it the same as in-person coaching?
We get that it’s different connecting with someone over a screen rather than face to face.

We’d really encourage you to just give it a go. We have experiences amongst the team of being total sceptics to virtual coaching and once we gave it a try, we found the experience to be… well, the same. We didn’t feel like there’s anything lost from coaching and after a little while, you kinda forget you’re ‘doing virtual’ and you just focus on the conversation. Our coaches are still offering the same support and invitation for connection. Try to stay curious about the content of your session over the context in which it’s taking place.

OK, I’m listening. But what about logistics? How do I connect with the coach for my session?
We’ll always send instructions in the confirmation and reminder emails for your session. If you can’t find it, shoot an email to bookings@sanctus.io and someone on our support team will help you out.

We advise downloading the zoom software in advance of your session.

Let’s talk tech. Do I need any equipment to make the virtual coaching experience work?
Naturally, you’ll need a device with a camera and a microphone that connects to the internet. For the best experience, we recommend using a laptop or Mac and using headphones that contain a microphone. Experience has shown us this tends to be the best chance of clear sound and a reliable connection. There is also the option to download the zoom app and connect via a mobile device.

So I’ve never tried coaching of any kind before and I’m nervous about the idea of speaking to a coach. Is it ok for me to start with virtual? Any tips?
Totally! We’re glad this is making things more accessible for you. Virtual can actually be a really great way to start your practice of working on your mental health. Especially if you’re feeling nervous or apprehensive.

Face to face coaching for some can feel intense. For some people who’ve been working on themselves for a while or the natural chatterboxes amongst us, it’s not a big deal. But, if you’re curious but a little more reserved about spending time with a coach, virtual gives you some options. It might feel more comfortable when someone isn’t sitting right in front of you. There’s no right or wrong way to have a Sanctus session so if you’d rather turn your camera off, until you get a feel for things, that’s ok too. Sometimes even having the person on the other side of the screen can make you feel a little less exposed. Treat yourself with kindness and don’t worry about jumping into face to face coaching right away if you feel like you’d rather try it this way first.

In general, what are the benefits to doing virtual coaching?
Virtual is great for first timers or curious but apprehensive coachees as we’ve mentioned above. We also think it’s great how virtual coaching comes direct to you. All you need to do, is find a quiet spot and get connected. It’s also a great way to scale Sanctus across global teams. Meaning coaching isn’t just a benefit for the London office. Virtual coaching is a benefit that anyone can access including those who work from home, remotely or just can’t make it to the office on the day the Sanctus coach is present.

What do I do if the connection is poor?
Most broadband internet connections over 10 Mbps are sufficient to connect over video. You can test your internet connection speed here. Also, we know it’s cliche but hanging up and trying again can really make a difference if things cut off. We’d advise against using public wifi networks like in coffee shops as the connection is not as reliable. If you have a strong mobile network, connecting over a ‘personal hotspot’ can help. Having multiple browsers tabs and windows open or downloading large files can also impact the reliability of the connection.

Any recommendations to make the virtual session go as well as possible?
We’re glad you asked! For in person coaching, we ask businesses to follow our room requirements guidelines. We’d encourage you to create the same kind of space wherever you are. Think of a light room where you have privacy and won’t be overheard. It’s good to have a comfy chair and a space you feel you can relax in. If you’re working from an office, book yourself a private meeting room.
With in person coaching, there’s a short journey to and from the session. This often can be a great space to reflect on where you’re at today and afterwards, think about how the session was for you. We’d encourage you to give yourself 5 minutes either side of your session to arrive and then to digest what you spoke about.