As Coach Supervisor, one of the questions I’m often asked is: How much of myself should I bring into the room? More specifically, Is it okay to share my own vulnerability?
When I first started working as a supervisor, I believed I had to be the steady, composed ‘expert’ at all times. With 20+ years’ experience as an Executive Coach and having trained as a supervisor with the Henley Business School, surely I had it all figured out! I thought vulnerability might shake my credibility. But over time, I learned something important: being human doesn’t weaken the coaching/supervision relationship—it strengthens it.
I recently worked with a newly qualified coach who shared that on occasion they struggled with imposter syndrome. They had ample evidence of successful coaching sessions, glowing LinkedIn recommendations, yet they often doubted their worth, and questioned the value they were able to add.
We explored the concepts of projection, transference and countertransference (topics to be explored in another blog) and while this uncovered new insights, I gently shared that I, too, have experienced moments of self-doubt when supervising — especially when stepping into unfamiliar territory. That simple moment of honesty opened a door. The coach relaxed. They no longer felt alone. From there, we had a far more authentic and powerful conversation.
That’s the thing about vulnerability—it creates connection. It shows we’re not above or outside the experience of being human. It invites trust.
But there’s a balance. Vulnerability doesn’t mean sharing your personal story in every session. It means knowing when a small, honest truth can serve the client. If I ever share something about myself, it’s never to make the conversation about me—it’s to create space for the coach/client to feel seen, safe, and supported.
We ask leaders to show up with authenticity. Shouldn’t we, as coaches, do the same?
I’ve come to believe that vulnerability, when shared with intention, is not only okay—it’s essential. It reminds both coach and client that growth doesn’t come from having all the answers, but from being open, curious, and real.
Helen Isacke, founder of Trusted Coach Directory is also an EMCC Accredited Coach Supervisor. As a reflective partner, Helen works with coaches who are keen to learn and grow on a professional and personal level through exploring their client work and coaching practice. With 20+ years’ experience of professional coaching, Helen brings a wealth of experience having trained in various coaching models including NLP, Clean Language, FIRO Theory, TA101 and a range of profiling tools.