Why Chemistry Calls Aren’t About Selling - They’re About Sparking Self-Awareness

Geraldine Gauthier
Jul 8
2 min read

Most coaches approach chemistry calls like a sales pitch.

But here’s the truth:

The most effective chemistry calls aren’t about convincing someone to work with you.

They’re about helping someone finally see themselves - clearly, honestly, maybe for the first time.

I recently spoke with a founder teetering on the edge of burnout. Her company was scaling fast, her team was strained, and she had zero space to breathe. She began the call with:

“I don’t even know if I need coaching. I just feel stuck.”

Instead of selling my services, I asked:

“If nothing changes in the next 6 months, what’s at stake for you?”

She paused. Then whispered:

“Honestly... my marriage. My health. And maybe even the company.”

That was the turning point.

Not because I had a powerful pitch.

But because that one question helped her connect the dots between where she was and what truly mattered.

We didn’t talk about features, methods, or ROI.

We talked about her life.

What Makes a Great Chemistry Call?

A powerful chemistry call doesn’t persuade - it gives permission. It's a moment of reflection. A chance to:

- Create space for truth and clarity

- Ask transformative questions

- Help someone meet the version of themselves they’ve been avoiding

- Replace the pitch with presenceThat’s when a conversation becomes a catalyst.

That’s when people say “yes” - not to your offer, but to their own growth.

8 Powerful Questions That Convert Without Selling

These are my go-to questions—refined over hundreds of coaching conversations. They build trust, uncover truth, and spark commitment in a single call.

1. What would success look like after our sessions? → Creates a clear, emotional vision.

2. What’s the biggest challenge you’re facing? → Centers the session on what matters most.

3. If nothing changes in 6 months, what’s at stake? → Brings urgency and the cost of inaction.

4. On a scale of 1–10, how committed are you to making a change? → Reveals coachability (and resistance).

5. What would it mean for you to reach your goal? → Connects goals to identity, values, and purpose.

6. What’s holding you back? → Surfaces limiting beliefs and real blockers.

7. What kind of support do you think you need? → Positions coaching as the bridge to progress.

8. What would make this investment (of time, energy, or money) feel 100% worth it? → Gets them to define ROI in their own words.

Save them. Use them. Share them.

These are not sales tactics - they’re invitation points.

8 Powerful Questions That Convert Without Selling

Coaching Isn’t About Convincing

The best coaches don’t close deals. They open doors. They listen deeply. Ask courageously. Reflect honestly. And hold space for truth.

They help clients surface what’s already inside—beneath the noise, pressure, and self-doubt.

So if you’re wondering how to convert more coaching clients, here’s the real strategy: Stop trying to prove your value. Start asking better questions. Lead with connection, not persuasion.

Because real connection? That’s the best conversion strategy there is.