What is coaching?

Coaching is quickly becoming one of the leading tools that successful people use to live extraordinary lives. Through coaching sessions, clients identify what is most important to them and align their thoughts, words, and actions, accordingly.

The consultancy works with individuals to identify what he/she wants personally and professionally, and support them in achieving their goals.

The term 'coaching' has come to mean many different activities; now coaching is more usually seen as a means of developing people within an organisation in order that they perform more effectively and reach their potential. Confusion exists about what exactly coaching is, and how it differs from other 'helping behaviours' such as counselling and mentoring.

Below are some core characteristics of what we consider to be coaching activities:

• Coaching is a fairly short-term activity.
• It consists of one-to-one developmental discussions.
• It provides people with feedback on both their strengths and weaknesses.
• It is aimed at specific issues/areas.
• It is time-bounded.
• It focuses on improving performance and developing/enhancing individuals skills.
• It is used to address a wide range of issues.
• Coaching activities have both organisational and individual goals.
• It focuses on current and future performance/behaviour.
• Personal issues may be discussed but the emphasis is on performance at work.

Coaching tools, techniques and models
Coaches use tools that are 'fit for purpose' to encourage self-awareness, reflective learning and change - the simplest tools/techniques are often the most effective. A range of tools and techniques are used to achieve a best meet client needs.

Why has coaching become so popular?

• Improved decision-making by senior employees. For senior level executives it can be 'lonely at the top' as they have few people they can confide in, develop ideas and discuss decisions and concerns. A coach can be used as a 'safe and objective haven' to discuss issues and provide support.
  
  
• Developing Management Skills Coaching provides a valuable way of developing management and leadership skills for highly technical individuals who have been promoted or given responsibility for managing others.
  
  
• Individual responsibility for development. There is an increasing trend for individuals to take greater responsibility for their personal and professional development. Coaching can help individuals identify development needs, plan development activities and support personal problem-solving.
  
  
• A popular development mechanism. People enjoy participating in coaching as they get direct one-to-one assistance and attention that fits in with their own timeframes and schedules. There is the potential to see quick results  It can be beneficial to individuals new to an organisation as well as those with many years service.

A Typical Coaching Programme

A basic coaching programme might include the following:

• Goal Setting.

• Exploration of work-life balance issues.

• Projecting credibility through the development of a powerful and positive image and communication style.

• Collaborative interactions to build and maintain relationships and develop strategies to deal with difficult people.

• Motivating yourself and others to get best results.

• Committing to success by maintaining energy and willingness to achieve excellence.

How many and how long are the coaching sessions?

Coaching sessions can be face to face or over the telephone. Face to face sessions are normally one and a half to two hours, telephone sessions are usually one hour. Sessions take place about every three weeks. A minimum of 6 sessions is suggested before a review. 

After an initial programme many clients are seen every three months or on an ad hoc basis as the need arises. The content of all session are confidential between the coach and client.

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