Executive Coaching

Published in the Corporate Training Monthly - April 2002

Trends and Applications for Coaching

There are some very interesting trends in terms of executive coaching. The concept of keeping a coach on retainer for Just-In-Time coaching has grown in popularity due to the need for just-in-time support and training.

The results are positive. In many companies coaching is enhancing the stage of leadership development of executives.

As the discipline of coaching matures, more importance is being placed on certification. There are now recognized schools and designations for professional coaches. One of the most prominent associations is the International Coach Federation (www.coachfederation.com). The goal is to establish a "coaching culture". Many of these firms use coaching as a follow-up to other training.

Other advantages of coaching include employee retention. Some companies have successfully used executive coaching as a "perk" to attract and retain key personnel.

Firms are even finding through measurement processes that coaching can help the "bottom line". It has proven highly effective as a follow-up to 360 degree feedback and satisfaction surveys.

Other organizational applications include:

  • Improved collaboration
  • Enhanced performance and career development
  • Improved communications and interpersonal skills
  • Defining enhanced leadership and management skills
  • Exposing systems dynamics and changing patterns

Specific leadership applications include:

  • Leading by moving with, through, or behind others
  • Building quality relationships
  • Developing the capacity of others
  • Treating all groups and individuals as equals
  • Encouraging continual growth

This is driven by the belief that "a leader needs to be different than what others expect them to be". Leaders need to be able to disagree to be authentic and ensure their integrity is intact. Managers need to be self-aware and reflective. No longer is leadership development a cookie-cutter process.

Copyright © Mary-Ann Owens 2009
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