It’s always fascinating what interesting slippery slopes life serves me, which I can grow from: In 2016, I very consciously specialised in coaching women in leadership positions. In the meantime, a few male clients who want to grow – and take responsibility for their lives – have also found me.
The other day I sat in a first “chemistry-meeting” with a 40-year-old entrepreneur. I immediately like his shirt-sleeved, very direct manner. And as we talk, I think “Yes, I would like to accompany you”. After more than 2,500 coaching hours, I dare say I recognise a good match.
The conversation flows and I sense that my counterpart finds my coaching approach interesting. Now it’s all about the conditions. And this is where the slippery slope begins: usually my contacts are human resources developers in large companies. There are usually fixed general conditions. I tell my potential new client my hourly rate for managing directors and instead of making a point, I prattle on and explain my graduated price model. And then I go on to say that I’m sure we’ll agree on pricing…. WUSCH, I have slipped back into an old pattern of adjustment after a long time.
My counterpart’s reaction: “Ulrike, I think you and your programme are really good. But now it’s starting to crumble. You don’t seem to know your worth.” Spot on! I feel caught. I have to laugh about myself for bustling around. “Thank you,” I say. “For being so direct. I can take that.”
The guy hasn’t contacted me again until today. And maybe he wouldn’t have chosen me anyway. It’s not important. What is valuable is the gift he left me. Krishnamurti, when asked why he is always so happy, replied: I don’t mind what is. It would be presumptuous to say that I have reached it. But it is a beautiful goal.