We see this all the time in mentor coaching:
smart coaches, good questions, real care—and still something feels off.
More often than not, it comes back to one thing: the agreement.
This post is a simple, creative reminder of why “No Agreement, No Coaching” isn’t just a rule—it’s the foundation of everything that follows.
Jamie I have been experimenting with something fun for our coach training program, writing short songs based on the ICF Core Competencies. We started playing with different musical styles, and with a little help from AI, we’ve been able to shape the music in a way that feels creative, light, and memorable.
Our Latest Track: No Agreement, No Coaching
This one focuses on Core Competency #3: Establishing Agreements.
It has a Brazilian Bossa Nova vibe, and the whole idea behind it is simple:
If coach and client aren’t aligned on the agenda… there really isn’t a coaching conversation yet.
The song is a playful reminder of something every coach learns early on …clarity creates transformation. In our experience as ICF Mentor coaches we notice that when a coach and their client have a solid agreement the conversation has a better flow and cohesiveness.
We wanted a new way for coaches to internalize the competencies that didn’t feel heavy or overly academic. Music sticks. It helps people remember ideas without forcing it. And honestly, it’s been fun for us to make these together.
More songs are coming, each one tied to a different competency and a different musical style.
Lyrics for the song ICF Core Competency Song 3
No Agreement No Coaching
Inspired by ICF Core Competency 3 Establishes and Maintains Agreements
Before we start we take the time
To name the goal and draw the line
What does success look like to you
The agreement is the coaching too
Meu Dios (Portuguese)
No agreement no coaching flow
That is the rule all master coaches know
We do not get to it we stay in it through
That is ICF Core Competency Number Three…tres
Check in refine stay side by side
Clarity keeps the trust alive
The agreement is the work we do
That is how great coaching stays clear and true
No agreement no coaching flow
That is the rule all master coaches know
We do not get to it we stay in it through
That is ICF Core Competency Number Three
Lyrics by Jamie Slingerland MCC, Ruthie Slingerland MCC