Everywhere you turn, somebody is talking about AI. “Now with AI.” “Powered by AI.” “Ask our AI assistant.” But for those of us who coach, counsel, and teach people about money, this raises a bigger question: Where does AI fit into the work we do with clients? That’s a question worth slowing down to answer. Adding AI to a workflow is easy enough. Using it in a way that strengthens the coaching relationship takes intention. Start With the Coaching Need Before asking, “Which AI tool should I use?” ask: “What am I trying to help this client understand, decide, or do?” Maybe your client feels overwhelmed and needs help identifying one priority. Maybe they understand their financial situation but struggle to explain it to their partner. Maybe they have a goal, but their next step is so large and vague that they keep putting it off. Each situation presents a different opportunity to use AI. It might help you prepare a thoughtful question, simplify an explanation, or turn a client’s chosen action into a manageable plan. The coaching need gives the technology a purpose. Getting an Answer and Making a Decision Are Different Things AI can produce a polished response in seconds. But a polished response does not automatically mean your client feels understood, agrees with the direction, or is ready to act. Imagine a client saying: “I know I need to save, but every time I get paid, something comes up.” An AI tool might immediately generate a savings plan. As a coach, you have a reason to get curious first. What keeps coming up? Unpredictable expenses? Family responsibilities? Income that changes from week to week? A plan that leaves no room for real life? The answer changes the conversation. AI can help you think through possibilities. The client helps you understand which possibilities fit their life. That is why our listening, judgment, and coaching presence matter. Three Practical Places to Begin 1. Prepare for a coaching conversation Use a fictional scenario to explore questions you could ask.