Scenic mountain view from hilltop, showcasing majestic peaks, rays of sun through clouds, and lush greenery below. A symbol of positivity, perspective, and clarity.

Additional Information

FAQs

Welcome! Here, I’ve compiled answers to commonly asked questions to provide you with quick and comprehensive information about my services. Whether you’re  new to me, a referral, or we have a long-standing relationship, I look forward to learning more about YOU and what has brought you here today. 

FAQ

Who do you work with?

I primarily work with individuals, teams, and organizations who work in the social impact sector. These are people who are working to address today’s pressing issues, improve quality of life, promote equity, foster community development, and create lasting change. Their career paths may take them to positions in nonprofit management, public service, social entrepreneurship, policy and advocacy, corporate social responsibility, or philanthropy. They are working (formally or informally) to advance topics such as education, healthcare, economic opportunity, gender and racial equity, environmental sustainability, cybersecurity, peace-building, and social justice, to name a few. At the end of the day, they are mission-driven individuals who seek to drive positive impact on society and the well-being of its members.

I also specialize in working with fellowship programs, communities of practice, affinity groups, alumni communities, and other cohort learning models, which provide opportunities for collaboration, peer learning, and professional development. I am particularly passionate about these groups, as they tend to enhance participants’ knowledge, skills, and networks within their respective fields; thereby advancing professional growth and access to opportunity.

What is the difference between consulting, coaching, and training? How do they compare to other helping professions?

Let’s say you walk into a restaurant and are unsure of what to order.

  • A consultant would review the menu in advance, look at reviews on sites like Yelp or Google, and identify a short-list of recommendations to consider.
  • A coach would ask powerful questions around your goals of the meal and walk alongside you to ensure that your decision-making and actions are in alignment with what is important to you (e.g., goals to eat healthy, within a certain price point, to try something new, to celebrate a special occasion, etc.).
  • A trainer might invite you to come back to the kitchen, grab an apron, and gain hands-on experience in preparing a meal.
  • Additionally, a therapist might ask about your past experiences at that restaurant or with the types of food they offer, and how those experiences are impacting how you feel about today’s options.
  • A mentor is someone who has previously dined at this restaurant and can tell you what they would recommend based on their experiences.

All of these approaches serve a distinct and complementary purpose, and can support you in ordering the “meal of your desires.”

Now…replace the word “meal” with your current goal or decision. You get the picture!

I’m new to coaching. How does it work? Who is it for?

Coaching is about assessing where you are now, establishing a vision for the future, and closing the gap between the two. It provides a confidential and judgment-free setting to explore new possibilities, set realistic goals, bust through roadblocks (especially self-imposed barriers), and receive accountability on action commitments. It is particularly beneficial for anyone navigating a transition (e.g., students about to graduate, young professionals looking to land their first job, new managers seeking to lead more effectively, mid-career employees seeking more balance, an executive strategizing next steps, individuals in-between jobs, or an entrepreneur launching a new initiative). A typical Coaching Agreement lasts six months and includes two sessions/month, unlimited emails, and occasional 15-minute spot calls for time-sensitive support and guidance.

What is your approach around ethics and confidentiality?

I uphold the highest standards of honesty, transparency, and ethical behavior in services provided.

As a coach, I follow the International Coaching Federation Code of Ethics. This includes a responsibility (1) to clients, (2) to practice and performance, (3) to professionalism, and (4) to society.

As a trainer, I facilitate the group in co-creating their own desired norms and commitments. This often includes agreements around what they need to feel safe and brave in a space of learning.

As a consultant and researcher, I emphasize human-centered, non-extractive, and participatory research methods. This looks like centering the human experience in the design and delivery of programs, and empowering research participants to own final data (e.g., final reports, summaries of research findings, dashboards, etc.).

What are your rates?

Rates vary based on the service(s) provided and are best determined after an exploratory call to better understand your needs. Schedule your complementary call today!

  • For consulting, I offer hourly and daily rates consistent with industry standards.
  • For trainings, I charge a flat fee per workshop, up to 20 attendees and up to two hours in length. Additional duration or group size may require a co-facilitator (don’t worry, I know many!).
  • For coaching, I offer sliding scale rates based on the individual’s sector and career level. For those navigating a career transition, I offer a deferral payment plan so that the priority of coaching can be on landing the next job, not on “How am I going to pay for coaching?”.
  • For public speaking, rates vary based on the audience, duration, and format of presentation.

I am skilled in offering all of the above services virtually and in-person. Where travel is involved, the client will be responsible for covering all costs related to travel and housing.

Do you offer any services pro bono?

I agree to a limited number of pro bono or “low bono” opportunities per year. This is typically to work with groups that have been historically or systemically marginalized or underfunded. Otherwise, I am committed to the principles of pay equity and sustainability and believe that compensation for labor should be fair. Additionally, when requests involve sharing personal lived experiences or facilitating trauma-informed work, there’s also a need to consider emotional labor.

What makes you unique?

I am deeply committed to delivering excellent results for the individuals, teams, and organizations with whom I partner.

My 15+ years working in social impact provides me with a deep understanding of the sector – including the passion that people bring to their work as well as common challenges faced. 

As a lifelong learner, I seize opportunities to grow, stretch, and learn. I don’t back down from a challenge. Even in building this website, I watched countless videos on topics like “how to add an anchor link,” “what is a favicon?” and “why won’t my website publish?” If you’re reading this, then I think I sorted out (most) of my questions!

Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, I have a strong spirit of adventure. In my personal life, that means I take every chance I can to travel, see new places, meet new people, learn new skills, and forge new paths. Professionally, this means I embrace the unknowns, explore the “what could be’s”, and look for new ways to unleash possibility. This spirit of adventure is the same one that guides me as a business owner; to work with other individuals, teams, and organizations in forging their unique paths of impact in the world. 

How do I start?

If you’re ready to take your career, team, or initiative to the next level, schedule an initial complementary call today! We’ll discuss your goals, the guidance you’re seeking, and approaches I can offer to support your journey. You are also welcome to email kristen@kristenhecht.com with any questions.

Take the First Step

Ready to take your career, team, or initiative to the next level? Schedule an appointment today for personalized career coaching, engaging workshop facilitation, or project-based consulting. Unlock your full potential, gain valuable insights, and achieve your goals with tailored guidance and expertise.

Kristen Hecht, LLC

A boutique consulting firm that provides customized consulting, coaching, and capacity-building services. Specialized in working with individuals, teams, and organizations to build high impact programs, develop effective leadership styles, and embark on journeys of purposeful growth.

Washington, DC, USA

Working remotely in the Washington, DC area, across the United States, and worldwide.

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