What should a senior do first when beginning a counseling session?

Beginning a counseling session with praise helps to establish a positive and supportive atmosphere. This approach can create an environment where the subordinate feels valued and respected, which can lead to more open and productive communication. By acknowledging strengths or recent accomplishments, the senior counselor sets a constructive tone for the discussion, making it easier for the subordinate to engage and share their thoughts. This strategy also helps build rapport, making the subordinate more receptive to feedback and any performance-related conversations that may follow later in the session.

Starting with praise can effectively enhance the overall effectiveness of the counseling session because it reinforces a strengths-based perspective, encouraging personal growth and development rather than solely focusing on areas of improvement or issues.