What Actually Happens in a Group Coaching Session?

by Sean Foster | October 10, 2025  | Business Coaching

What Actually Happens in a Group Coaching Session for NZ Business Owners?

If you’re a New Zealand business owner asking this, you’re not alone. Many leaders hesitate to join because the idea feels vague, but in reality, group coaching is clear, structured, and practical. It gives you the chance to learn directly from peers, stay accountable, and discover fresh solutions to everyday challenges.

In this article, we’ll break down exactly how a group coaching session works in NZ, from the structure and format to the outcomes you can expect, so you can decide if it’s right for your business.

On our website, you can also read a related article: Unlocking Your Team’s Potential: How Group Coaching Boosts Productivity & Dynamics. It dives into how group coaching supports not just owners, but also team culture and productivity.

Group Coaching Session Structure: What to Expect (NZ Focus)

Most group coaching programmes follow a consistent structure so that everyone gets value from the session. A typical session might look like this:

1. Check-in and goal review (10–15 minutes)
   Members update the group on progress since the last session. This creates accountability and momentum.
2. Focused discussion or topic (30–45 minutes)
   A central theme is explored—this could be business strategy, financial management, marketing, team leadership, or overcoming challenges. The facilitator guides the conversation, but the real value comes from peers contributing their experiences.
3. Problem-solving and hot seats (20–30 minutes)
   One or two members present a real challenge. The group collaborates to brainstorm ideas, share lessons, and offer solutions.
4. Action planning (10–15 minutes)
   Each member commits to specific actions before the next session. This ensures progress isn’t just talked about, it’s acted on.
5. Wrap-up and accountability check (5–10 minutes)
   The session closes with clarity on next steps and confirmation of mutual support.

How Group Coaching Works in NZ: Formats and Examples

Group coaching in NZ usually runs on a regular schedule, weekly, fortnightly, or monthly, and may be in person, online, or a mix of both. Sessions are facilitated by a coach who ensures the conversation stays constructive and that everyone has a voice.

Some formats include:

• Roundtable discussions for sharing ideas and feedback
• Workshops for building specific skills like goal setting or financial literacy
• Accountability sessions such as boardroom type formats where what has been promised to be done is dissected and explored

The goal is not just to give advice, but to create a space where business owners think differently, learn faster, and test solutions in real time.

Benefits of Group Coaching for NZ Business Owners

Business owners who participate in group coaching in NZ often experience:

• Improved decision-making from hearing how others tackled similar issues
• Greater accountability by committing to actions in front of peers
• New strategies and tools that they may not have considered alone
• Reduced isolation, realising others face the same challenges
• Fresh motivation from being surrounded by growth-minded peers

From my own experience and backed up by BDO NZ, peer-based coaching fosters self-awareness and helps leaders build confidence in making decisions.

Group Coaching vs Executive Coaching vs Workshops

Why Group Coaching is Powerful for NZ Small Business Owners

With 97% of NZ businesses classified as SMEs (MBIE), most owners face similar challenges: time pressures, resource constraints, and decision-making under uncertainty. Group coaching leverages the collective experience of peers, making it highly relevant for Kiwi business culture, where collaboration and practical problem-solving are valued.

Is Group Coaching Right for Your NZ Business?

A group coaching session is less about theory and more about real conversations, real challenges, and real outcomes. With structure, peer accountability, and professional facilitation, group coaching can give NZ business owners both clarity and confidence.

👉 Want to see how it works? Book a time with Sean or explore our flagship BIG Group Coaching programme, designed to help Kiwi business owners grow together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How long does a group coaching session last?
Most sessions run between 60 and 90 minutes, depending on the size of the group and the topics covered.

Q2: How many people are usually in a group coaching session?
Typically between 6 and 12 participants - large enough for diversity of thought, but small enough that everyone is heard.

Q3: What types of topics are covered?
Common topics include business growth strategy, leadership, financial management, marketing, team dynamics, and personal productivity.

Q4: Is group coaching suitable for all business owners?
It works best for owners who are open to sharing challenges and learning from peers. If you prefer highly tailored, private support, executive coaching may be a better fit.

Q5: How soon will I see results from group coaching?
Business owners often notice mindset shifts within a few sessions and practical business improvements over several months.

Q6: How does group coaching help my team?
Group coaching not only benefits you as the owner, but also strengthens team culture. By applying what you learn, you can boost collaboration, communication, and productivity in your business. (Read more in our article: Unlocking Your Team’s Potential: How Group Coaching Boosts Productivity & Dynamics.)