Acknowledgement is a coaching skill used to give recognition to the client. It points out the inner traits or characteristics that the client demonstrated in order to accomplish an action. Acknowledgement is important because it can articulate attributes of the client that they may not be aware of. When you acknowledge you empower the client.
Here are some tips to make your acknowledgment powerful:
1. Take your opinion out: Don’t endorse – keep the focus on the client, not on you: Example – “You took big risk.” versus “I support that you took a big risk.”
2. Be specific: Example – “You were determined and persevered in meeting the deadline.” versus “Good job meeting the deadline.”
3. Be judicious: Acknowledgement is special – too much and it loses its powerful impact
4. Look for attributes where the client shines in the situation and point them out, such as:
- Determination
- Perseverance
- Courage
- Focus
- Creative
- Positive
- Organized
- Confident
- Flexible
- Gracious
- Vibrant
- Motivating
- Insightful
- Bold
- Resolve
- Responsible
5. Be genuine: Clients will know when the acknowledgement is honest and truthful.
Who deserves your acknowledgement today?
For more resources, see the Library topic Personal and Professional Coaching.