The Coaches Corner

Even the best coaches can get easily sidetracked and lose credibility by leaning too hard on assumptions. Below are 3 of the risks we face when we assume along with tools to prevent these risks from turning into reality: Risk 1: Loss of credibility . Entering a coaching conversation assuming we know the full picture ahead of time causes us to lose credibility with those we coach.  Tool 1: Assume good intent . If you are going to assume then assume the other person has good intent in why they did what  they did. Assume he or she made the best decision they knew how in the timeline.  Tool 2: Ask open ended questions to truly understand . Ex. "I want to make sure I see the full picture here. This is what I'm seeing. Can you fill in the gaps for me?" Risk 2: Loss of valuable time . In relationships slow is fast. Lack of understanding when coaching will slow down the overall process by potentially putting the other person on the defensive.  Tool 1: Plan out ...

Many leaders and coaches were once either athletes or participated in some sort of activity that required significant practice (i.e. dance, painting, acting, gaming etc.). One of the biggest challenges I see with coaches who were involved in athletics or activities is that they forget the practice related work ethic it took to become successful in their chosen activity. A great baseball pitcher would never be able to throw fast and accurate without practice. The same principle applies in coaching.  Practicing coaching skills (not on those you coach) is THE most effective way to improve. Consider the following: Schedule Practice - The best coaches are those that have regular practice in the calendar in a "practice" and feedback rich environment. Break it Down - What specifically do you want to improve? Break down the system of coaching and be intentional for 2-4 weeks on improving that one area. Create a 6 month plan for skill development. Train The Nervous Syste...

To become a master coach we must be able to develop a deep level of trust with those we serve. Below are a 3 keys to building trust in your coaching relationships. Be Genuine . Never compliment another person or try to "build them up" just for the sake of fluffing them to receive your feedback. Be genuine in all your communication.  Be Open . One of the most impactful ways to build trust is to introduce the elephant in the room immediately. Don't shy away from the tough topic. Introduce it first and tackle the most important topic first.  Ask: "So, what's the most important topic we need to discuss today?" Say: "I know that the most difficult challenge can take the most time. Could we tackle this issue first to respect the time we have together?" Live By The Anatomical Ratio . You have two eyes, two ears and one mouth. They should be used in that proportion.  See what is being communicated through the body language of the other pers...