Episode 9

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Published on:

23rd Sep 2025

Contracting in coaching: beyond the tick box

In this episode we unpack contracting as a living, multi-layered practice rather than a one-time formality.

We explore three distinct levels of contracting:

  • Administrative – The essentials: when and where sessions happen, confidentiality agreements, cancellation terms, fees, and note-taking.
  • Professional – Clarifying goals, purpose, scope, and whether to involve other parties such as a line manager or HR.
  • Psychological – The unspoken relational agreements, unconscious patterns, and “felt sense” of the coaching space.

Drawing on real-world examples, we show how unconscious dynamics - such as parent-child patterns - can affect the work, and why Always Be Contracting (ABC) is such a useful mantra. We discuss practical ways to keep contracts alive, including naming ruptures in the relationship and agreeing upfront how to address them.

We also delve into psychological distance between coach, coachee, and organisational stakeholders, using the concept of the three cornered contract from Julie Hay. Rarely an equal-sided triangle, the shape reflects engagement levels and potential for collusion.

We discuss multi-stakeholder contracting: bringing all key parties (coach, coachee, sponsor/HR) together at the start and ideally again mid-way and at the end, to align on purpose, roles, confidentiality, and progress. 

If you’ve only seen contracting as a tick-box exercise, this episode might change your view, and your practice.

Resources: 

Three levels of contracting 

Contracting in team coaching

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About the Podcast

The Coaching Question
Exploring the world of coaching in business, for coaches, users and buyers of coaching
Two experienced executive coaches, Sarah Turner and Gregor Findlay discuss topics pertinent to those that commission and use coaching in organisations, as well as for coaches themselves.

We want more coaching conversations to be happening in the world and while there are lots of resources targetted at coaches, there seem to be less targetted at helping those that bring coaches into organisations.

About your hosts

Gregor Findlay

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Gregor is an APECS Accredited Master Executive Coach with nearly 20 years experience who has helped hundreds of senior managers, directors and C-Suite executives undergo transformative change and growth, both personal and organisational.

Gregors mission is to help leaders and leadership teams develop and grow so they can make an even bigger difference for themselves, their people and society. My role is helping others be more free and able to have happier, successful, and more worthwhile lives.

Sarah Turner

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Sarah’s an experienced Executive and Maternity Coach, and business psychologist. She has many years’ coaching experience working across a range of sectors working with professionals, managers and leaders.

On a personal level, Sarah is passionate about empowering women to combine both their personal and professional lives once they become a mother. Her coaching approach is pragmatic, supportive but challenging where appropriate, enabling women to gain clarity about what is most important and manage their transition with renewed confidence.