coaching FAQs
Leadership coaching is a talent development process designed to meet the unique needs of an individual leader. It is one-on-one development focused on behavior change to improve overall performance and effectiveness. Coaching is also an opportunity to actively learn and practice new skills in a safe environment by building an awareness of self and how others perceive us.
But introducing coaching to a leader can be a delicate conversation. Approach it in an open, positive way so the leader sees it as a career development opportunity. To help explain the process, we compiled some answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about coaching that explain:
What is the coaching experience like?
Coaching is having…
- a confidante who listens and helps you safely explore:
- new ideas and approaches
- difficult situations
- perceived obstacles to accomplishing work/life objectives
- a guide who assesses your goals, interests and abilities
- a partner in a thought-provoking relationship that is part of a creative process
- an accountability expert to help you take action to meet organizational and individual goals
- a support to help you learn new tools and navigate your path to achieve success
- an experienced resource that…
- is certified in asking powerful questions
- is curious and intuitive
- shares expertise and experience as needed
- is an advisor you can trust with confidential information
- builds from your strengths
The focus is on YOU.
What should I look for in a coach?
The most effective coaching experience starts with a good match between your preferences and the experience, skills and style of the coach.
Your coaching experience starts by considering areas in which you would like to develop. Next, interview potential coaches. We recommend that you review a few coach profiles and conduct face-to-face interviews.
During your interviews, you should learn about…
- the coach’s background – how they came to be a coach
- their areas of expertise
- their experience coaching leaders with similar development needs
- their approach and process for change
- their successful coaching engagements
- how they handled various coaching challenges
Self-selecting the right coach is an individual decision and the first step to a successful coaching experience. Your success is worth the investment of time upfront.
Fit is for YOU to decide.
How will I know the coaching is working?
Motivation is the key. The clearer you are about why you are entering the coaching relationship, the easier it will be to measure your success.
Use coaching metrics and an action plan that addresses development needs, new behaviors, and accountability for results to help you identify successes.
Common examples of coaching metrics might include:
- team exceeding sales goals
- receiving a promotion
- improved performance
Qualitative measures include:
- increased awareness (of self and others)
- increased confidence
- increased personal effectiveness
- improved decision making
- improved collaboration with associates, customers, and key stakeholders
- increased morale and motivation
- ability to navigate and handle change
Change does not happen overnight. Stay focused, make the commitment, be patient, and embrace change.
YOUR growth is limitless.
How can I maximize my coaching experience?
- Understand the coaching process and be motivated to move forward
- Share previous assessment data, performance reviews and development plans
- Orient your coach to your organization, its culture and your role
- Define your areas for development and stay focused on practicing new behaviors
- Involve your boss and other internal stakeholders – be open about your coaching and continually seek feedback. Have a communication plan
- Commit yourself to a written action plan, commitments and expected outcomes. No excuses
- Dedicate yourself to consistent, scheduled meetings with your coach to build and maintain momentum for sustainable growth
- Be open to receiving constructive feedback
- Be ready to listen and try new behaviors
- Practice…practice…practice
Build Better Leaders
Contact us to learn more about our leadership coaching options.