Because I love to sing, the movie Sister Act 2 is a favorite of mine. Near the end of the film, during a heated competition, a rival singing group ends up performing the exact same song that our heroes of the movie had planned on performing. So in a split second decision, Whoopi Goldberg (the choir director) changes the established “status quo” by telling the kids to take off the concert robes and wear their own street clothes. This is her way of coaching the members of her choir the importance of being themselves, no matter how crucial the event.
Coaching is a skill that many leaders think they have a firm grasp on, often performing the same “coaching-act” with each session. Many simply follow a questionnaire to “get the job done.” They do not carefully look at their own coaching style/approach in order to make the most effective session on a case by case basis. When done appropriately, Coaching enhances motivation, performance, awareness, and the development of another person.It is an ongoing process of building a partnership for continuous improvement.
Here are some tips to remember when planning a coaching session:
Match the type of support you offer to the other individuals personality and needs.Many times as coaches we rush into our topic of discussion.This may be due to time pressures, personality conflicts or difficult issues that need to be discussed. Consider asking the person if there are things they would like to talk about first. Starting a coaching conversation this way helps promote an open dialogue and is a key in gathering data from the person you are coaching.Plan ahead, be creative, and don’t use the same type of support repetitiously.
Experiment with different types of support and don’t be afraid to go with your gut feeling during your coaching sessions.It is okay to change approaches to an issue. Remember you are leading the choir; taking the person to where he/she needs to go which is not always to the established plan. SMART any plan you come up with (specific, measurable, action oriented, realistic, and time bound) and impose your solution only if it is necessary.
Allowing the other person to take ownership to a created plan is the first step to better performance from that person.
Unlike a concert choir robe, Coaching is not a “one size fits all” type of attire. It requires the Coach to think and act on their feet and willing change style at appropriate times. You will win some and you will lose some, however, by following the above tips, the person you are coaching will feel more comfortable knowing that you are being yourself and that you expect the same from them.
Good Post!! Effective coaching in the workplace delivers achievement, fulfillment and joy from which both the individual and organization benefit:Coaching is the key to unlocking the potential of your people, your organization, and yourself. It is based on the concept that individuals learn most from the everyday application of skills and by trying things out in practice.