Coaching Consultation

Also called: Initial Consultation, Complimentary Consultation, Strategy Session

Definition

A coaching consultation is a preliminary meeting between a coach and a potential client to assess fit, clarify the client’s goals, and determine whether coaching is the right solution. While similar to a discovery call, a consultation often involves more depth. Some coaches use consultations to provide a small amount of actionable insight or a mini-assessment, giving the prospect a taste of the coaching experience before committing.

Why it matters for coaches

The line between a consultation and a discovery call is blurry, and many coaches use the terms interchangeably. The distinction matters when you’re positioning your offer. Calling it a “consultation” signals more expertise and authority. It frames you as the professional assessing the situation rather than the salesperson pitching a service. Some coaches charge for consultations, especially at the premium end of the market, which pre-qualifies serious prospects. Whether free or paid, a good consultation leaves the prospect feeling understood, not sold to. That feeling is what drives the decision to move forward.

Example

Generic: “I offer a free chat to see if someone wants coaching.”

Consultation-defined: “I offer a complimentary 30-minute leadership consultation that includes a brief communication style assessment. Prospects walk away with one actionable insight they can use immediately. About 50% of consultation attendees enroll in my 3-month leadership program.”

Related

• What should I say in a coaching discovery call?
• What is a Discovery Call?
• What is a Coaching Package?
• The Discovery Call Script Framework

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