How to Record Your Coaching Sessions: A Guide for Student-Coaches

Recording your client sessions is an important part of your growth as a coach. Whether you’re preparing for mentor coaching, feedback, or your ICF Performance Evaluation, the quality and clarity of your recordings matter.

Here’s how to do it smoothly and professionally:

Step 1: Get Client’s Consent

Before recording any session, you must receive your client’s permission.
We recommend saying something like:

“Would you be comfortable with me recording this session? The recording will be used solely for my training and development as a coach, and will remain confidential.”

For formal evaluations or submissions, you may need written consent. You can use a short consent form or an email confirmation.

DOWNLOAD CONSENT TEMPLATE

Step 2: Choose Your Recording Method

You have a few reliable options depending on how you’re conducting your session:

If you’re coaching via Zoom:

• Use Zoom’s built-in recording function

  • Click “Record” at the start of the session.
  • Choose whether to record to your computer or to the cloud.
  • Tip: Recording to your computer is often more reliable and faster to access.

• Reminder: If you’re not the meeting host, make sure the host gives you recording permission.

If you’re coaching via phone:

• Option 1: Use a second device

  • Place your phone call as usual, then use a second device (phone, tablet, or computer) to record yourself speaking.
  • Apps like Voice Memos (iPhone) or Easy Voice Recorder (Android) work well.
    
    

• Option 2: Use a phone recording app or service

  • Apps like Rev Call Recorder (iOS) or TapeACall (iOS & Android) allow you to record calls with consent.
  • Be sure to test the app ahead of time and confirm audio quality.
    
    
• Option 3: Use Zoom for audio-only calls
• • Set up a Zoom meeting and have both you and your client call in by phone or internet audio.
  • Record the session as usual.

If you’re using other platforms (Skype, Teams, Google Meet):

• Skype & Teams have built-in recording features. Make sure you know how to access the recording afterward.
• Google Meet only allows recording if you have a paid Google Workspace account.
• For all of these, make sure the platform records both voices clearly.

Step 3: Test Your Setup

• Do a test recording with a friend or peer.
• Check that both voices are clear and balanced.
• Avoid background noise and ensure you’re in a quiet space.

Best Practices

• Name your file clearly, e.g., JaneDoe_CoachingSession1_Apr2025.mp3
• Save a backup copy in a secure folder.
• Use headphones or earbuds with a microphone for better sound quality.
• If submitting for ICF, recordings must be 20–60 minutes long and in mp3 or m4a format.
• Respect confidentiality: Never share your recordings outside of the approved learning or evaluation process.

Suggested Tools & Apps

Need Help?

If you’re unsure how to record using your preferred method or want to test a recording, reach out to your program support team or mentor coach—we’re here to help!