This week’s guest blog comes from Nadine Crowe. She writes…
When I joined my company four years ago as an experienced hire, I was given a list of available Career Counsellors in my Workgroup. I asked my then line manager if she knew anyone on the list and she recommended a name.
My Career Counsellor was studying to be an accredited Coach and asked me if I would like her to coach me, which I agreed to as I love talking about myself. Since then, I have learnt a few things about being coached. And about myself…
Here are my tips to help you get the most out of your coaching relationship (or help you see the benefits your coaching can have on others). Even if you have a fantastic coach (like I do) it can still take time to adjust to being coached.
1. Make notes in same book each session so you have a record of the session and any relevant actions in the same place –not scrawled on random bits of paper (like I used to do).
2. Always book a room well in advance so you have privacy (like I never used to do).
3. Prepare – have a think about what you want to talk about otherwise you might end up rambling on/moaning (like I used to do).
4. Be honest with your coach – you don’t have to tell your coach anything you’re not comfortable with but they will see through you if you’re not honest with them.
5. Be honest with yourself – your coach will ask you some hard questions. If you answer those questions honestly you will reap the benefit. Being coached is not about having someone to agree with your every word but about having someone who, when appropriate, challenges your way of thinking.
6. Talk about the positive, not just the negative. I used to discuss “issues” with my coach. I once said “I don’t know what to talk about, everything is great!” She then told me you can be coached on positive developments so you can make the most out of them, not just the problems. I’d never thought of it like that before. I have learnt how to make the most of great opportunities – a new exciting project for example, as well as working through problems
For me, coaching has had a direct positive effect on my career and performance in so many ways I can’t begin to list. It takes time and effort to be a good coach, and a good coachee (is that even a word?). But it is worth it.
If you liked this week’s post, you may also like:
2 minute video on keeping responsibility in the middle, from 3D Coaching
Sample Coaching session with David Rock: Choosing your focus.
International Coach Federation code of ethics.
