Coaching Conversations
In coaching, different types of conversation metaphors help describe how we engage with clients, uncover meaning, and guide reflection. Here are three rich metaphors
Mark Saymen
5/26/20251 min read


In coaching, different types of conversation metaphors help describe how we engage with clients, uncover meaning, and guide reflection. Here are three rich metaphors—Mineral Mining, Beach Ball, and Iceberg—along with how each is used in coaching conversations:
1. Mineral Mining – Digging for hidden value
This metaphor frames coaching as the process of digging deep beneath the surface to uncover core beliefs, buried insights, or untapped strengths—much like mining for precious minerals underground.
Used in coaching to:
Explore root causes behind behaviors or challenges
Identify limiting beliefs or internal narratives
Discover hidden values and motivations
Encourage deeper self-awareness
Example: A coach might say, “Let’s dig a little deeper—what’s beneath that hesitation?” helping the client mine the real fear or value behind a decision.
2. Beach Ball – Seeing multiple perspectives
Imagine a large beach ball with different colored panels. Each person sees only one or two colors from their perspective. This metaphor highlights that truth is multi-faceted, and coaching can help expand perspective.
Used in coaching to:
Explore how others might view the situation
Challenge assumptions and single-point thinking
Develop empathy and systems thinking
Broaden leadership perspective
Example: A coach might ask, “What might your team see that you can’t from where you’re standing?” encouraging the client to rotate the metaphorical ball.
3. Iceberg – Surface vs. underlying drivers
Like an iceberg, only a small part of human behavior is visible above the surface. The bulk lies beneath—our values, emotions, assumptions, and past experiences.
Used in coaching to:
Address behavioral patterns and emotional triggers
Shift mindset and challenge unconscious beliefs
Understand how past experiences shape the present
Example: If a client shows resistance to delegation, the coach might explore the deeper fear or identity issue “under the waterline.”
How to Use These Metaphors Together in Coaching
Metaphor - Mineral Mining:
Focus Area: Uncovering hidden beliefs/strengths
Coaching Impact: Deep insight and personal transformation
Metaphor - Beach Ball:
Focus Area: Shifting perspectives
Coaching Impact: Greater empathy, decision-making, leadership
Metaphor - Iceberg:
Focus Area: Exploring subconscious influences
Coaching Impact: Sustained behavior change, self-awareness