The Process
Coaching is based on the fundamental belief that within each unique individual lays incredible
potential - to do more, be more and have more. That each one of us is capable of far more than we realise and that we already have, or have the ability to find, the answers that we need. However, the stresses of busy modern day life often cloud the way forward. Coaches use effective questioning techniques and active listening skills to guide you through the fog, bringing clarity and purpose back into your life and providing the catalyst to unlock your true potential. By using the services of a Coach you will discover what you really want from your life and develop ways to make it a reality.
Regular coaching sessions keep you on track and are a powerful means for implementing changes much faster than going it alone. You will quickly realise that with planning and self-discipline you can achieve far more than you thought possible. Taking charge and moving forward in just of one area of your life is extremely motivating, and the resulting "feel good factor" often creates a ripple effect, leading to positive changes in other areas of your life and work.
Coaching is very action oriented, and your coaching sessions will produce tangible solutions that help you to:
- clarify what you want from your life, business or career.
- explore options and opportunities and identify obstacles and blocks.
- set effective goals and achieve them.
- Release and build your personal potential.
- identify priorities and define action strategies and plans.
- stay motivated and focused.
A typical coaching program consists of four coaching sessions, one coaching session per week of 60 minutes. Sessions may be conducted both on the telephone and face-to-face. Telephone coaching is becoming increasingly popular as it eliminates travel time and provides greater flexibility This means that you can be coached wherever you are, even overseas. Coaching programs generally last a minimum of 3 months to ensure that you get the full benefit of the coaching process, rather than a quick fix. Most coaches also provide additional support through e-mail and/or fax.
When is it best?
Coaching can be effective in most situations, but works particularly well when you are going through a period of change or are at a point where you want to move forward in a particular area of your life. For example:
- You are struggling to find a balance between your professional and personal/home commitments
- You are "stuck" - something in your life is stopping you from moving forward.
- You know you want to be healthier / fitter - but how / what / when?.
- You keep putting things off until tomorrow / next week / next month.
- You have recently experienced a life changing event, or you just know that there is something better out there for you.
Coaching provides a supportive environment to explore a wide range of issues that may be blocking your success including work/life balance, conflict resolution, relationships, parenting, communication, stress and productivity. Most of the people who use coaches are high achievers and/or people who want to get the best out of life. Typically they are unhappy and dissatisfied with some aspect of their life, business or career performance, and want to make changes that help them move forward.
It is effective with people of all ages, backgrounds and areas of interest, and increasingly, employers are seeking the benefits of coaching for their managers and executives. To get the best out of coaching you must want to change and be prepared to make the effort. When you take responsibility for your future and are committed to the process, you will be amazed by the results you achieve!
Choosing a Coach
When choosing a Coach, make sure you check that they are an Accredited Coach and recognised by an Association. You must also check that they are insured. The role of the Coach is greatly determined by your individual needs as a client. You will design the way that you work with your Coach during your initial session, to ensure that you create a partnership that will be effective in helping you make the improvements that you want. Your Coach may adopt many roles (motivator, mentor, business consultant, trainer, friend) and will act as a sounding board, someone you can speak freely and comfortably with. Someone who is there to listen to you and focus on helping you make your life the way you want it to be.
The relationship that you develop with your Coach will be an ongoing partnership where you and your needs are the agenda of each session. It is therefore essential that the Coach you choose is someone with whom you have excellent rapport, and someone you feel you can be honest and open with. Most coaches offer a complimentary coaching session, so take advantage of this to question them on their work background, their coaching style, their specialty area and their coaching training. Coaches should also be willing to provide you with both written and verbal testimonials, so feel free to ask them.