The Relevance of Executive Coaching

In my experience training for triathlons, I have found that my coaches have helped me tremendously. I have sought coaches for my swimming (my main weakness) and running (my unfortunate strength). For those new to triathlons or endurance sports, I would strongly recommend that they seek such specialists to enhance their skills faster and safely. Injuries are painful ways to learn, and they are debilitating and can impede your progress as an athlete – sometimes, permanently.

Sports coaches help us with drills, teaching us proper techniques and methods. Drills condition our body and mind to internalize the biomechanics of sports strokes and movements. Perfect practice makes perfect; wrong practice becomes permanent, and are harder to change. The coach teaches by a process of discovery, instead of merely directing.

In Blanchard’s Situational Leadership model, the four leadership styles are directing, coaching, supporting and delegating. They are no best styles, only the suggestion that we be flexible enough to engage all fur styles when appropriate.

Executive coaching, as applied in the corporate world is for up-skilling and developing staff. You can coach a staff to learn technical skills, interpersonal skills, and become more competent and confident in what they do. Coaching can take place face-to-face, via video-conferencing (such as Skype), and over the telephone. Your coach can guide you through a facilitative process, meaning you will engage in a ‘productive conversation’ that has you consider your hindsight, insight and foresight. You will consider different perspectives, and determine alternatives and solutions to existing problems. Instead of the traditional problem-centric approach, you can be solutions-focused.

Seek a coach, and enjoy your discoveries.