I asked myself the same question before I started working with clients online. Was it even possible? Could we build the necessary trust through a screen? Would it be just as deep?
After two years of practice, I have a clear answer: it depends. But not on what most people think.
Honest comparison
| Criterion | Online | In person |
|---|---|---|
| Session efficiency | Comparable | Comparable |
| Flexible scheduling | Very high | Medium |
| Time savings (travel) | No travel required | 30-60 minutes extra |
| Geographical availability | Anywhere in the Czech Republic and worldwide | Prague and surrounding areas |
| Deepening the relationship | It takes longer | Faster |
| Disruptive elements | Notifications, home environment | Neutral environment |
| Threshold | Lower (less stress) | Higher |
What research says
Studies from the International Coaching Federation in 2023 show that clients rate the effectiveness of online and face-to-face coaching as comparable. 78% of clients prefer the flexibility of the online format, but 62% state they would like to attend at least the first session in person.
From my experience: the depth of a session depends more on the client's openness and the quality of coaching questions than on the format. I have seen very deep online sessions as well as superficial face-to-face meetings.
When is online coaching the better choice
Online works better when:
- Your diary is fully booked with no room for travel.
- You are not from Prague
- Do you prefer an environment where you feel safe (home, office)?
- Are you used to remote communication (IT environment)?
- Do you want to start without a "commitment" to an in-person meeting?
A personal meeting works better when:
- You are at your first meeting and want to build trust faster.
- You are working on a highly emotional topic.
- At home or in the office, there are too many distracting elements.
- You need to physically "leave" your environment.
How I do it
I work in both ways. In person in Prague (Josefov), or online via Google Meet or Zoom, depending on the client's preference.
Many of my clients start online and then tell me they would have preferred an in-person visit. Or the other way round. They came in person but later prefer online for its flexibility. I'll leave it up to you.
I thought it wouldn't work online. But actually, I prefer it. I'm at home, don't have to travel anywhere, and the sessions are right before or after stand-ups. It feels more natural.": client, Engineering Manager, Brno
Practical tips for online meetings
If you choose the online format, a few things that will significantly improve quality:
- Quiet location - close doors, disable notifications
- Headset with microphone - better sound than laptop speakers
- Eye-level camera - natural eye contact
- 15 minutes in advance - check the connection, have a drink, and "switch your brain" to another mode
- Hidden notebook - Do not look into the service window; remain present.
My recommendation
If you are unsure, start online. It is more flexible, we can arrange things faster, and the efficiency is comparable. If you then feel you would prefer a personal meeting, come along. I welcome both options.
Online or in person: both methods work.
Free 30-minute consultation. Anywhere in the Czech Republic, at a time that suits you.
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