Designing Coaching Dialogues

Engaging coaching dialogues are key to an effective coaching program. This chapter gives you guidelines for writing coaching messages, choosing the right message length and keeping users engaged.

1. Writing Coaching Messages

1.1 Clarity and Simplicity

  • Be clear and concise: Use simple language that is easy to understand. Avoid technical terms and complex sentences. If you need a technical term, explain it.
  • One idea per message: Each message should cover only one idea or piece of information.
  • Cut filler words: They make sentences longer and harder to understand. If you can remove a word without changing the meaning or clarity, remove it! Only use filler words when they are needed to make the coach sound natural, and use them sparingly.

1.2 Message Length and Interactivity

  • Keep it short: Messages should be brief and to the point. Break complex topics into several short messages instead of one long one.
  • Let users respond: Give users regular chances to reply. This makes the conversation more engaging and lets them control the pace.

Rules of thumb:

  • Per message (bubble): max. 2–3 sentences (approx. 200 characters)
  • Before the user can reply: max. 3 coach messages in a row
  • Per coaching session: max. 10 minutes (!)

1.3 Expectation Management

  • Say how long it takes: Let users know how long the interaction will take, especially if it's longer than 3–5 minutes. You can also do this indirectly, without naming minutes, e.g.:
    • "I'd like to ask you a few questions about..."
    • "I've prepared a short health literacy lecture on..."
  • Show progress in words: Tell users how far along they are, e.g., "We've already reached the last question for today."

1.4 Tone and Style

  • Sound natural: Make the coach sound like a real person, e.g., a friend, coach or doctor. How would they talk to the user?
    • Spoken language differs from written language, which tends to be more formal. This is especially true in German.
    • Use a conversational tone that feels natural and relatable, but still competent and serious enough to be taken seriously.
    • Avoid overly casual language, but stay friendly and approachable.
  • Talk to the user directly: This makes the experience more personal and engaging.
    • ❌ "A suggestion could be..."
    • ✅ "I suggest you..."
  • Personalize: Address users by their name.

2. Using Emojis

Emojis help you create a friendly tone, highlight key messages, stay consistent and make dialogues more visually appealing with topic-related visuals.

2.1 Friendly Tone

Make dialogues more engaging and natural, matching the coach's informal and friendly tone.

  • "Glad you're here! 😊"
  • "See you tomorrow! 👋"
  • "Have a nice weekend! 😎"
  • "Thank you for your feedback! 🙏"

2.2 Highlight Information

Emphasize important information or messages.

  • "I'm really proud of you! 👏"
  • "That's correct! ✅"
  • "You completed your goal! 🥳"
  • "Please be careful! ☝️"

2.3 Consistency and Clarity

Always use the same emoji for the same function, so users recognize it right away.

  • "You can check your diary 📘"
  • "Please open the daily plan 📋"
  • "It's time for your medication 💊"
  • "Let's start the next health literacy lecture 💡"

Make dialogues more appealing and easier to follow.

  • "You should measure your blood pressure twice, in the morning ☀️ and in the evening 🌛"
  • "I'd like to remind you about your goals 🔔"

Example: emojis in answer options

"What's your favorite sport?"

  • swimming 🏊
  • running 👟
  • football ⚽

3. Using Images

Images make dialogues more varied, engaging and visually appealing.

3.1 Boost Engagement

Catch users' attention and make the dialogue more engaging.

  • "Here's a quick diagram to help you understand today's topic:"
  • "Look at this chart to see your progress:"

3.2 Explain Concepts

Make complex topics easier to understand.

  • "This image shows the proper way to measure your blood pressure:"
  • "Check out this example of a balanced meal:"

3.3 Break Up Text

Break up long blocks of text so the dialogue is easier to read and follow.

  • "Here's a photo of the exercise we'll be doing today:"
  • "Take a look at this infographic about healthy eating habits:"

Tip: You can find free stock photos on Unsplash.