In addition to coaching CEOs and other senior leaders 1:1, I also conduct pair coaching engagements, typically with co-founders or with a CEO and another C-level officer. (I also work with groups.) There's no single best approach to pair coaching, but there are several common arrangements. Here are the configurations I'm most familiar with, as well as more information about the approach I employ in my practice:
1. Parallel 1:1s + Trio Sessions
I work 1:1 with both individuals, and I meet with both parties as a trio to address issues in the relationship and other shared challenges. The 1:1 sessions are held on a consistent cadence, while the group sessions may be held on the same cadence, a less-frequent cadence (e.g. quarterly), or on an ad hoc basis. (This is the configuration that's most common in my practice.)2. Parallel 1:1s
I work 1:1 with both individuals, but we do not meet as a trio. Issues in the relationship may be addressed in the 1:1 sessions, but that's not the primary focus of those engagements. (This configuration works well in certain circumstances--for example, I've employed it successfully with spouses.)3. Trio Sessions
I only meet with both parties as a trio to address issues in the relationships and other shared challenges, and I do not meet with either individual 1:1. (In some circumstances I'm open to employing this configuration.)4. Parallel 1:1s + Trio Sessions with Separate Coaches
Both members work 1:1 with separate coaches. In addition, the coaches confer with each other on how best to support the pair, and all parties meet jointly on a consistent or ad hoc basis. (It's rarely feasible for me to participate in this configuration. This isn't a comment on the approach, which is exactly what some pairs need, but I generally don't have available time for the necessary coordination.)5. Parallel 1:1s with Separate Coaches + Trio Sessions with a Third Coach
Both members work 1:1 with separate coaches, while also engaging a third coach to conduct trio sessions to address issues in the relationship or other shared challenges. (In some circumstances I'm open to employing this configuration.)
Most of my work with pairs is conducted virtually, but on occasion I'm available for in-person events, usually in Marin County at the Lodge at Marconi in Marshall or at Cavallo Point in Sausalito. It's generally not feasible for me to travel outside the Bay Area.
If you're looking to work with me in one of these capacities, I'm happy to talk with you about that possibility. If you haven't yet seen these other pages on my site, they'll help you get started:
More on my approach to coaching
Availability, cadence, and fees
Photo by Paul Keller.