The Common Mistake That Causes Executive Coaching VAs to Quit (and How to Avoid It as a Coach)
- 8point8 Team
- Apr 9
- 3 min read
Coaches take on various roles in today's fast-paced environment. You juggle strategy sessions, craft life-changing programs, and cheerlead your clients to victory. But with so much on your plate, it's easy to feel stretched thin.
That's where Virtual Assistants for Coaches come in. These admin support for coaches can be a game-changer, they free up your time to focus on what you do best: guiding your clients towards their goals. But here's a secret weapon: VAs aren't just time-savers; they're strategic partners. When you invest in a quality Executive Coaching VA and build a strong working relationship, you'll unlock a whole new level of efficiency and success in your coaching business.
However, there's a common mistake many coaches make that unwittingly pushes their Executive Coaching VAs towards the exit door. Here, we'll uncover this pitfall and equip you with the knowledge to avoid it, fostering a thriving partnership with your VA.
The Culprit: Underestimating the Power of Delegation
The biggest reason Executive Coaching VAs leave coaching clients is a fundamental misunderstanding of delegation. Many coaches view VAs as glorified errand-runners, assigning them basic tasks without providing clear instructions or context. This approach breeds frustration on both sides. Your Executive Coaching VA feels disengaged and unchallenged, while you remain bogged down because the tasks haven't been completed effectively.
The Delegation Do-Over
So, how do you delegate like a pro and turn your VA into your right-hand woman (or man)?
Shifting Your Mindset: View your Executive Coaching VA as an extension of yourself, not just someone to check off to-do list items. Invest time in onboarding them to your coaching process, philosophy, and target audience.
Delegating with Purpose: Don't just dump tasks. Identify high-impact activities that can be effectively delegated based on your VA's strengths. This could include scheduling client calls, managing email communication, or creating social media content.
Providing Clear Instructions: Set your Executive Coaching VA up for success with detailed instructions that include the what, why, and how of each task.
Empower, DO NOT Micromanage: Give your Executive Coaching VA the autonomy to make decisions and use their initiative. Trust is the key in building a successful partnership with your VA.
Investing in Their Growth: Show your Executive Coaching VA you value their contribution by providing opportunities for professional development. This could include online courses, industry conferences, or access to relevant coaching resources.
The Ripple Effect of Effective Delegation
By delegating strategically and fostering a collaborative partnership with your Executive Coaching VA, you'll reap a multitude of benefits:
Freed Up Time: Focus on high-value coaching activities that generate revenue and move the needle for your clients.
Improved Efficiency: Streamline your processes and workflows for a smoother-running business.
Reduced Stress: Take back control of your schedule and reduce the burden of overwhelming tasks.
Happier VA, Happier You: A valued and engaged Executive Coaching VA is more likely to go the extra mile for your business, creating a win-win situation.
Beyond the Checklist: Building a Rock-Solid Relationship
Remember, your Executive Coaching VA is a human being, not just a cog in the machine. When treated right, you will be amazed at how they can give exceptional administrative support for coaches. Here are some additional tips to build a strong working relationship:
Communicate Regularly: Schedule weekly check-ins to discuss progress, address challenges, and provide feedback.
Offer Recognition and Appreciation: Always saying ‘Thank you’ for giving a public shout-out can go a long way in boosting morale.
Be Flexible and Understanding: Life happens. Be open to occasional schedule adjustments or unexpected situations.
Celebrate Wins Together: Share your client's successes with your Executive Coaching VA. After all, they played a part in making it happen!
By following these tips, you can transform your VA relationship from a chore to a strategic advantage. With a supportive and empowering environment, you'll attract top talent, keep your Executive Coaching VA engaged, and unlock the true potential of your coaching business.
So, are you ready to level up your coaching game with a superstar Executive Coaching VA? Take the first step today by creating a clear delegation plan and outlining the tasks you can effectively offload. Remember, a happy and empowered Executive Coaching VA is an invaluable asset in your coaching journey.
