Career Blog: Coaching
The technique can be used with direct reports, colleagues, partners and clients, particularly if a specific goal or outcome needs to be achieved. Essentially the “coach approach” is a communication style that can be used by leaders at all levels of the organization.
The conversation focuses on developing and maximizing the abilities and talents of others to achieve the best possible outcomes in organizational work.
Leaders who use a “coach approach” ask open-ended questions, actively listen, facilitate solution based thinking, and provide regular and honest feedback to support growth. It means that others’ ideas are sought and supported. It also means that there are times when the coaching leader needs to spend time discussing and discovering what went wrong, and what should be done differently the next time.
When you begin using the “coach approach” a little more time may be needed to get something done quickly, however the benefits outweigh that drawback. Many people today prefer working with a leader who uses this approach. The relationships in the workplace are usually stronger and people are more engaged, empowered to contribute and committed to the organization. In turn, the workplace culture becomes more open, transparent and collaborative. For more information go to Coaching Resources to get started.
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