From “Can I ?” to “I Can !”
Coaching is a multi – discipline approach which needs the coach to be a
manager, consultant, counsellor or mentor in different situations. Busy
executives rarely have the time or mindspace to reflect about their own
potential. Coaching helps them do that and also take action to achieve this
potential. This is done by a series of steps that follow a goal oriented
structure. The structure ensures that the coaching process is not lost in
repetitive discussions. The small steps ensure that there is a sense of
movement and achievement.
The approach is summarised in the steps below.
a. Mine the needs and wants of the coachee at the current moment of
time. Done with the help of tools and thinking questions. Very often
individuals are stuck with not knowing what they want rather than
how to get it done.
b. Refine the mined thoughts into a priority list that reflects
professional and personal potential. Needs a careful blending of what
the organisational concerns and individual needs.
c. Define goals based on refined needs
d. Set the strategies and actions for goal achievement. Start with the
big picture so that new approaches are thought of. Jumping straight
to actions usually fails – simply because these are the same actions
that have been tried many times.
e. Periodically review strategies and actions, acknowledge the progress
made and ensure repetition so that new work / life style is evolved.
Define new mindmaps that influence the thinking and attitudes. The
coach’s job is to enhance thinking and attitudes and not just focus on
the behaviour and results.
f. At the end of the program evaluate progress through the measures
and by discussions with other shareholders.
The coaching process needs focus and patience. While it has a high success
rate and most coachees feel that it has impacted their life — it is not a
magic wand. In many ways it is a lifelong process.
And therefore I try to leave the coachee with not just immediate
measurables but also insights & self awareness that would help him / her
remain in a perpetual satisfaction & development mode.