“The best advice I was ever given, was to get a Coach”
Eric Schmidt – Former CEO Google.
What is coaching?
Coaching is a process, a series of structured conversations designed to help you get the best out of yourself.
Coaching is easily misunderstood: “I don’t need a coach, I just ask my partner, my friends, people I trust…”
There’s a big distinction between coaching and asking for guidance from your network.
Your nearest and dearest will probably advise you, make suggestions on what to do. Their advice is likely to be based on what their experience is of you. They might even tell you what they would do. When you ask a friend, colleague, family member for help or advice they’ll give it. But it may not be the best choice for you….because it won’t have come from you.
A coach will help you to think out loud. Bring your awareness to the surface and challenge your assumptions and help you to recognise opportunities. They’ll hold up a mirror to let you see what you may not have noticed before. A qualified coach has been trained in remaining objective, and will help you to work out your next move- be it a small step or set some goals. They won’t advise, tell you what to do or try to steer you – you probably have enough people in your life who do that already. A qualified coach has tools and techniques that’ll help you.
How does it work?
You’ll start off with a chemistry meeting where you’ll meet up and discuss how you might work together. It’s important that you both feel comfortable. It’s informal and free, and usually face to face at a mutually convenient location. (UK based) or on Skype or Face-time internationally. You’ll discuss your overall goals, objectives and success measures for your coaching. You can plan how often to meet, and each meeting will have a follow up on previous goals and actions.
A coach will help you to see different perspectives, gain insight and ideas. Coaching is a process of deceptive simplicity and power. It helps you to focus on your individual growth and development.
Whilst it’s not therapy, Coaching is cathartic, it helps to unmuddle thinking and guide you towards clarity. Working with qualified coach is like investing in a personal trainer – but with less sweating.
When looking for a coach, check out their credentials, and ask if they have regular supervision- how can they expect you to be at the top of your game if they’re not themselves.
Coaching is about giving you the reflective space to consider and resolve challenges. If you want something to change, get a coach.
More info: http://www.nthlevelconsulting.com/coaching/