Field Work

Fieldwork is a term used to describe the summary of clearly stated action steps that clients are assigned to follow and complete. 

At the end of the day, coaching comes down to action. As we endeavor to coach, we want to be sure that our clients not only reach their goals but that they preserve them as well. For instance, if a client wanted to lose some pounds, it would be great to help them reach their desired weight goal. However, coaches assist them not only reach that goal but, more importantly, help to maintain the desired weight. Often coaching requires helping clients maintain and sustain momentum. One of the ways this can be done is through fieldwork.

Fieldwork is provided at the end of each session so action can be done between sessions or calls. An essential characteristic of fieldwork is that it is created by the collaborative efforts of the coach and the client. The most significant type of fieldwork includes three factors that formulate the momentum. These three factors are results-oriented action, awareness observation, and practices to create new habits.  

In a coaching session, I work with clients to help them develop their fieldwork. Again, we first start with identifying some results-oriented actions, which are basically the step-by-step actions required to meet goals. And, of course, the goals dictate the steps needed. 

In addition to results-oriented actions, I work with clients in the area of awareness and observation. Awareness and observation are vital because they are the process of information-gathering part and do not demand actions. The primary purpose of awareness and observation is to identify patterns. 

The final part of the process is practice. Practice does not always make perfect, but practice does make you better. Practice is the action that eventually creates the behavioral habits that the client wants to develop. 

The term fieldwork does not seem as intimidating as homework, but the concept is somewhat similar. Like homework, fieldwork should be clear, and it needs to be checked. 

This is where accountability comes in. I am always sure to check on my client's progress. One of the powers of coaching lies in accountability. Accountability is the benefit and the gift that coaches give to clients.

About the Author