There are several important elements to include in a coaching agreement. The idea is to refine your coaching agreements as you go along and as you sign up different clients. However, here are some must-have sections of a coaching agreement.
- An Introduction
It covers the reason for the engagement, the scope of the relationship and a little bit of background of the coaching program.
- A Disclaimer Section
While a coaching relationship is often intimate, it is important to be clear for instance that you are not a psychotherapist or a healthcare professional.
- Payments Policy
If you do not take the chance to spell this out early in the engagement, you might have to run around chasing your payments.
- A Clear Refund Policy
A clear and solid refund policy will also protect you from clients who do not keep their appointments or try to reschedule their sessions a little too late.
- Client Responsibility
Clients need to be aware that coaches develop programs to facilitate their success and that ultimately, they are responsible for their own success.
- Confidentiality
This does not just cover that sharing of information with third parties. It also covers any materials you may have designed by yourself.
- Indemnity Clause
It might be more worthwhile to get some legal counsel before you draft the terms. You’ll want to be sure you are properly covered in case of litigation.
- Termination Clause
Have these included in the agreement so you can easily refer to them if/when you have to let a client go.