Planning Ahead

Today’s guest post comes from Jane Sandwith of 3dCoaching.

Jane says: “Sometimes coachees start with a huge and complex issue, sometimes with a whole series of interrelated issues. Sometimes they start with an issue that appears to be quite specific and contained – until they begin to really explore it.  So where to start?  And how to decide what to do next, and when?

Contracting for outcomes is important – outcomes for the first conversation, and for a series (or programme) of conversations.  If three related issues are introduced, how much of the available time in the programme should you plan to spend on each?  Drawing a representation of the issues and how they relate to each other can help coachees to see what proportion of time each should have, and in which order to address them.  And as new insights and issues emerge you can agree to adapt the plan – keeping the required outcome in sight.”

This involves Establishing the Coaching Agreement and Planning and Goal Setting, numbers 2 and 10 of the ICF Core Competencies http://www.coachfederation.org/icfcredentials/core-competencies/

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About the Author:

Jane Sandwith, Development Director of 3d Coaching, a leading provider of organisational and career development through top quality coaching, training and group facilitation. Visit their blog http://www.3dcoaching.com/blog for more help with your career.