Communication & Interpersonal Skills Flashcards

During a coaching session, a client pauses for a long time after a difficult question. What is the coach's most effective response?

Answer: Allow the silence to continue so the client can process

Silence gives clients space to think deeply, and interrupting it can shut down valuable reflection.

A business coach notices a client's words say 'everything is fine' but their arms are crossed and their tone is flat. What should the coach do?

Answer: Gently share the observed incongruence and invite the client to explore it

Naming the mismatch between verbal and nonverbal cues, without judgment, opens deeper exploration.

Which questioning approach is most aligned with core coaching communication principles?

Answer: Open-ended questions that expand the client's thinking

Open-ended questions promote client-generated insight rather than steering toward the coach's agenda.

When paraphrasing a client's statement, the coach's primary goal is to:

Answer: Confirm understanding and show the client they were heard

Paraphrasing checks understanding and validates the client, which builds trust and clarity.

A client repeatedly interrupts the coach during a session. The best interpersonal response is to:

Answer: Address the pattern directly and reset conversational agreements

Directly and respectfully addressing the pattern maintains a productive coaching alliance.

Which statement best describes 'active listening' in a business coaching context?

Answer: Fully attending to the client's words, emotions, and meaning without planning a reply

Active listening means being fully present to content and emotion rather than rehearsing responses.

A coach wants to give a client feedback about a self-limiting habit. Which delivery is most effective?

Answer: Specific, behavior-focused observations offered with permission

Asking permission and focusing on specific behaviors keeps feedback constructive and non-threatening.