FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

MEMBERSHIP

What do I get for my membership?
You get access to the new Work/Life Design program which includes:

• self-coaching modules,
• a Studio full of resources,
• monthly group coaching at the Confab,
• monthly motivators with our Design Notes, AND
• the opportunity to have your own personal coach at our special coaching rates.

Can I pay for my membership by direct debit?
The $120.00 membership fee is due upon acceptance of your application. It may be paid by cheque, direct deposit, credit card or single direct debit. (Please note: Credit card and direct debit payments incur fees. See our Payment Options for details.)

COACHING

Can I choose my coach?
Yes, you can request a particular coach. We recommend that you check with us before completing your application in case your preferred coach has a waiting list.

Do I have to do weekly coaching?
No. You choose the frequency of your coaching so it suits your learning cycle, schedule and budget.

What's the minimum amount of sessions I should do?
We request that our new members commit to a minimum of six sessions when they join the Work/Life Design Program. We are realistic about change, and there are some basics that need to be covered in the program to ensure you get the most from it. After those six sessions, you can book as many or as few sessions as you want for the duration of your 12 month membership at the Special Work/Life Design Coaching Rate ($75.00 per session). If you choose not to participate in these six sessions, then casual coaching and planning sessions are available at standard coaching rates (standard casual coaching is $150.00 per 45 minute session, standard planning sessions are $250.00 per 90 minute session).

Can I change my coaching stream once I’ve started?
We encourage you to stay with your stream for a month, but we’re realistic. Sometimes, factors in your life that you have no control over can mean you need to change streams. Our intention is for the program to provide you with the structure you need to make the changes you want, at the same time as being flexible enough to change with you.

Can I quit the program at any time?
We ask you questions in your application to determine your readiness for change. If you are in the program, we believe you can do it. If you do find some aspect of the program doesn't work for you, we ask that you talk to your coach about what could be done differently so that you get the most benefit from your remaining sessions.

I don’t like talking on the telephone. Can I meet you in person?
We can offer this program and these prices because it is delivered by phone. If you would like in-person sessions, check out our casual fee schedule and the availability of coaches in your area.

I’m not in Australia. Can I still join the program?
We will work with you wherever you are in the world. You just need a telephone or skype. You may want to check with us before applying, to check we have coaches available during waking hours in your timezone.

COACHING PAYMENTS

Can I pay for my coaching fortnightly?
Yes. As long as your sessions are paid a week in advance, you can choose the frequency to suit your income flow.

How do I avoid paying direct debit fees?
The easiest way to avoid additional fees is to pay the total amount upfront by direct deposit. We won’t charge you any transaction fees.

How can you charge less money for coaching than other coaches do? Will I miss out on something?
We can do this because we’ve changed the way coaches work. By taking care of the business of coaching (such as administration, invoicing, payment, bookings, followups, reminders, compilation and distribution of worksheets and exercises, feedback) we allow our coaches to focus on what they’re great at – being there for you. And we do what we’re good at – great client and coach support.

I know it's affordable coaching, but I can’t afford $75.00 a session.
We don’t want you to participate in something you can’t afford, but we’ve found that people are more committed to their change when they have some financial commitment. If you’re self-employed or going through a career transition, you may be able to claim the coaching as a tax deduction. Remember, your membership includes the monthly Confabs (which are, shhh, a form of group coaching) and you have access to the DIY coaching stream and all the resources of The Studio.

DESIGN CONFABS

What is a Confab?
A confab is our monthly gathering of members by teleconference where we look at a particular theme relevant for that month and catch up with what everyone’s up to. It’s a great way to bounce ideas off a group, get encouragement and support from your peers, and be among people who are going through similar life changing experiences.

Do I have to participate in the Confabs?
We recommend you attend the Confabs as a way to get the most from your program, but attendance is not required. Your coach may refer to discussions from the Confabs in your session.

How do I dial in to the Confab?
The Confab is conducted on an international telephone bridge line, usually in the US. You call the confab number and, when prompted, enter the unique PIN number we send you. Check with your telephone service provider for your international call rates. Many Australian phone companies offer a capped or low cost calls to certain countries. The cheapest option is to use skype or a phone card. This will dramatically reduce your call costs.