𝗖𝗼𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗪𝗶𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗩𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗼: 𝗔 𝗪𝗮𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻

Back in March, I attended an excellent concert called “In the Dark,” during which the audience was blindfolded for the duration of the concert. 

The premise is that removing the ability to visualise the sound sharpens your listening. It did that, and it is incredible what you hear in this situation. That got me thinking about connection in coaching, and more specifically, coaching without video, such as over the telephone.

When we think of coaching, we often picture the traditional one-on-one scenarios—coaches and thinkers engaged in animated discussions, articulating their thoughts and feelings verbally while also relying on visual cues. I don’t remember coaching over the phone as a routine but I know many coaches for whom this was the norm.

The idea of coaching without video brings a fresh perspective that might challenge how we usually perceive these conversations. If being blindfolded during a concert can hone our listening abilities, imagine how removing the visual component from coaching can lead to deeper connections.

For the Coach, this approach means focusing on the nuances of language rather than being distracted by body language and facial expressions. When we engage in audio-only sessions, the emphasis shifts entirely to the spoken and unspoken words. This modality promotes active listening, leading to revelations that might otherwise be overlooked. The Thinker experiences an environment where their thoughts are unencumbered by the visual elements of a “traditional” coaching framework. 

In this state of heightened awareness, they're encouraged to explore their ideas more profoundly. The absence of real-time visual validation allows for richer introspection. It eliminates the tendency to read the coach's expressions and instead fosters a more authentic connection based solely on words, tone, and the shared journey of self-discovery.

Moreover, coaching without video can be beneficial for individuals who may feel self-conscious or intimidated during video sessions. It levels the playing field, allowing the Thinker to be fully present in their thoughts and feelings without the performance anxiety that can sometimes accompany being seen on screen.

As we move towards a more digitally oriented world, considering alternative methods of connection is essential. Coaching without video can be a powerful avenue for exploration, fostering a sense of safety and vulnerability that can lead to transformative insights. 

So, the next time you engage in a coaching session, consider the possibility of turning off that camera. Embrace the sounds, the silence, and the unfiltered dialogue—just as the audience at that concert discovered a new way to listen and connect with the beauty of music. You never know what insights might arise when you tune into the power of your own voice, and the captivating wisdom of the Thinker.