Coaching has the ability to transform. When done well it can empower, inspire and motivate an individual. There’s plenty of research to back that up and I’ve seen it many times with my own eyes. In fact, I can think of no instances where it has been disadvantageous or produced a negative outcome. Less is talked or written about though of the benefits to the organisation. It’s often assumed to be a tool of personal development, even when carried out by or within the business. And that’s not necessarily the case.
Most of my own clients work within senior or executive roles. Of varying ages, from varied disciplines and across a host of sectors, what they all have in common is a desire to improve themselves personally and succeed in their careers. While that’s a laudable primary aim, by default the employer makes significant gains too as those being coached: –
- Become more goal-oriented
Being successful relies heavily on knowing “what success looks like”. Helping establish the coaching client’s personal and business goals, and then working with them to achieve these, is a win-win for both parties. - Learn self-reliance
Inevitably over time, and as their confidence grows, clients feel better placed to make, justify and stand-by the decisions they take. This speeds the decision-making process and makes for decisive actions. - Achieve greater job satisfaction
At the start of the relationship many have come to feel they have no control over their role and work environment. This leads to frustration and a lack of motivation. Changing this mindset to a more positive one and putting the employee “front and centre” again when it comes to their career, means they start to enjoy work again and gain greater fulfilment from their job. - Work better in teams
Difficulties with colleagues, reports and most critically managers are one of the most common challenges that coaches have to counter with clients. Adapting to differing work styles and personalities results in less conflict and better teamwork. - Take greater responsibility
Accountability for their own actions comes once employees recognise that they have control over their work relationships and feel empowered in their roles. - Become more productive
Indecision and prevarication, usually resulting from a lack of confidence, is a sure-fire way for projects to slip and time to be wasted. Strip that away and productivity inevitably is improved. - Hone their communication skills
We all believe ourselves to be good communicators. Sadly, that’s not always the case. Developing empathy for those on the receiving end of our instructions and a better understanding of another’s viewpoint results in clearer two-way communications. - Appreciate the investment in them
Training generally, and coaching in particular, is an investment. Of time, budget and other resources. Most coaching clients respond positively to such an investment in their development seeing that it demonstrates confidence in their abilities and a recognition of their worth to the organisation.
If you’re ready to make that investment and have team members you think would benefit from Executive Coaching, we should talk.
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