When you have tried your best to achieve
your goals and it's just not working for you...
it is time to hire an executive coach
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Are you ready for an Executive Coach?
Are you an owner or
manager who has thought about making longer term plans for the business
such as a strategic plan, a succession plan, or developing an exit
strategy? And have you been "stuck" on how to get started because the
daily needs of your business consume your time or you just don't know
where or how to start?
You may be a good candidate to consider
an executive coach to help you work through these and other complex
business issues. A executive coach may also be a solution for a
high-value manager who has some performance/behavioral issues that are
getting in the way.
What is an Executive Coach?
Consider
the role of the sports coach. He/she guides the athlete, observing
his/her performance, providing feedback, suggestions for improvement,
technical critiques, encouragement, and challenging the athlete to
improve their performance. The coach never goes in the game to do the
work of the athlete. The executive coach works much the same way with
the client.
Why does coaching work so well?
The
Chinese proverb "The teacher appears when the student is ready" best
describes why coaching is so successful. Coaching is highly relevant
and is focused on delivering just-in-time learning in a confidential
setting thereby enhancing the owner and manager's skills and
confidence.
How do you know when it's time to hire a coach?
My
short answer is when you tried your best to achieve your goals and it's
not working for you; when you aren't sure what steps to take to achieve
your goals or improve relationships at work; when you are frustrated
with your progress and none of the strategies you've tried seem to be
working; or when you are about to take on new responsibilities and you
want to speed up your development. I ask many owners if they keep doing
the same thing over and over and expect a different result, that's when
it's time to break the cycle and try something different.
How do you find the right coach?
When
looking for a coach you want to consider the coach's experience,
ability to work in/with your environment, the coach's values and goals
are aligned with yours, and that he/she respects confidentiality. Ask a
colleague for a referral, a personal recommendation is a sign of a good
coach.
During the selection process, interview prospective
coaches as you would any trusted advisor. Discuss your expectations and
the "rules" of the relationship such as: confidentiality, confirm who
owns the information, and who else will have access to your
information. This is particularly important when you are in a corporate
environment and the company is providing the coach. Trust is the most
critical component of the relationship; therefore make sure you feel
comfortable with the prospective coach.
Coaching
may be an option to help you get from where you are now to where you
want to be. A wonderful transition could be on the horizon but you have
to take the first step and a coach can help point you in the right
direction and support you along the journey.
If you would
like to find out if coaching would benefit you and your business, call Mike Lednovich at True North Executive Development, LLC at 714/398-9824. Mention this article and receive a complimentary 60-minute meeting.
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