Coaching
With its usage in the sporting world, coaching has developed considerable credibility in recent years as an effective development tool in both private and public sector organisations which is used successfully at all levels.
Coaching has been defined as:
‘Developing a person’s skills and knowledge so that their job performance improves, hopefully leading to the achievement of organisational objectives. It targets high performance and improvement at work, although it may also have an impact on an individual’s private life. It usually lasts for a short period and focuses on specific skills and goals.’
How does it work?
It may involve using an externally appointed person or an experienced internal staff member to act as the coach. The coach and coachee (the other person in the partnership) meet to explore how they will work together, set appropriate professional boundaries for the relationship and agree the desired outcomes so that the success of the coaching partnership can be evaluated. Both parties enter into this voluntarily. They will then meet usually for an hour on a regular basis to explore issues/problems/difficulties that the coachee wants to move forward with. The role of the coach is to provide a supportive and safe environment and to facilitate the coachee’s exploration of their issue through the use of skilful questioning.
How long does it take?
Some coaching relationships can last for a significant period of time. However within this University the usual initial commitment is for a series of three sessions.
What are the benefits of coaching?
Participants usually state that they benefit from having focused one-to-one time to explore their issue in a supportive and safe environment. This enables them to develop their confidence, build their competence and grow in their self-awareness and self-esteem. It is particularly useful in times of organisational change or professional development.
Accessing coaching support
If you would like to find out more about the coaching support you could receive, contact Max Rawlings in the first instance.