Upbuild Coaching Bits: Naming It

“Naming It” is the skill of giving voice to what you’re noticing in the other person, yourself, or the environment. It is succinctly describing what you’re noticing in the moment or what you sense is underneath the surface. You can observe patterns, or name what is not being said, or identify what is happening in the relationship. Avoid being attached to being “correct” about your observation. When naming something, it is often beneficial to follow it up with a short, powerful question.

Examples:

  • “Something just shifted for you. What was that?”

  • “You just smiled. What changed?”

  • “I can feel myself getting energized as you share your vision.”

  • “I noticed a change in your energy. What’s going on for you?”

Coaching application: During each session this week, name something you notice about your client at least twice, and follow each observation up with a short, powerful question. 

Life application: In your next substantial interaction with someone in your life, use the skill of “naming it” to give voice to something you notice about the other person. What is the impact on the other person?

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