Hi Everyone, I am becoming an IP coach and I'm so excited! This program has changed my life and I am looking forward to helping others on their personal journeys. What advice do you have for me? What has helped you and what hasn't in your experience with coaches? Any and all advice welcome!

My amazing coaches were "let go" from the office I used to go to. I quit shortly after because the new coach was horrible. Here are a few things I loved then quit over. Have product on hand and open the boxes so people can try one of something before buying a whole box. Be as flexible as possible. Spend more time listening than talking once someone has a good start on the program, most of us know what we are doing wrong, we just need someone to tell us to get up off the floor and keep working! If your client says they are following protocal but not losing, believe them then dig into the details. Obviously something is wrong but don't treat them like a liar!! If you don't know something admit it! Don't get yourself overbooked. (We had major scheduling issues going from 3 coaches down to 1. They didn't reschedule, just tried to push us through in 5 minutes.)

Happymomof2 I am sure your experience will provide the insight necessary to deal not only with IP, but the physical and emotional issues that come along with weight loss/gain! Congrats and good luck!

LoriKay Unfortunately, your story is not unique, many of us have been through it. I am at peace with my coach now. I want to finish alternatives and all. She knows it. I have said it, but I think she doesn't want to hear me.

Wooo that is awesome!! Where in MA are you?

Congratulations! Make specific meal suggestions. You have been there. What did you like to eat? Make a list of these things for your clients. Don't just know "no you can't".....know "why you can't". I have learned everything I know from this forum. My coach is merely an order filler.

Yes!! I just noticed that. There are a lot of us MA peeps here!!

Best wishes to anyone becoming or thinking of becoming a coach. Goodness..there is a need for good ones!

Any one who has been through this program knows the secret is owning the process.

Sometimes what the coach needs to do is let the client talk. Let the client speak to what has gone on all week ..success or stall...Then..Encourage - Offer praise but let the client say..."I can do better" first...in their own words. If there has been a slip up and you are being quiet...the client will speak to that. Then as the "coach"...and only THEN ... YOU talk!

Once a client owns the process.... it is much easier to offer help!

Good luck!

I'm on the Cape - we should have a Massachusetts meet up somewhere central!

My coach has made a huge difference for me. She has been a cheerleader, reality check, therapist, friend and guide. I don't think I would have been this successful without her. I was thrilled when she asked me to join her clinic. I hope to bring that same experience to others. I love the advice and will use every bit of it, thanks!

IdealProteinNewbie has a Rockstar coach. I'd love to see her input

Congratulations on your success and for wanting to help others! I am very happy with my coach because she is encouraging and never judgemental. I love that I can buy individual packets of food - especially in the beginning. I was able to try a lot of things. She also has a little fridge with several of the walden farms products so I could try certain things before buying them!

I think you'll make a wonderful coach! There are many "coaches" out there who have never had a weight problem so they can not relate to the physical and emotional (which is often overwhelming) changes that happen when you lose weight/completely change your lifestyle.

You have the experience and empathy to help people become healthier and happier versions of themselves.

That is priceless!

Also, as I'm sure you know, someone can follow protocol 100% and either gain, stay the same or lose weight each week. Our bodies are complex and come with a host of hormones that affect everything. Some people are naturally "slow" losers but if you stick with the program it is guarenteed to work.

Listen closely, offer advice, encouragement, and a shoulder to lean on!

Doing this on my own with the help of so many here and you have helped so much just on this site and you will do terrific!!! Wishing you all the best.

I noticed that too!!! That's very cool!!

Congratulations! I'm sure you will do great! Even when I was discouraged my coaches told me what a great job I was doing. Being positive while making a difference in your client's lives will be so rewarding for you!

For my two cents - Realizing that everyone can't afford IP products 100% and if someone strays with alternatives to help with the cost, not to abandon them. They need the encouragement and if you treat them right, they will refer others to your program for guidance. Referrals are the best form of advertisement.