The Value of Coaching

Why do top-flight athletes employ coaches? Tiger Woods may be the best golfer of all time; how can someone tell him how to play? Roger Federer is an artist, the best tennis player in the world; what can he learn from someone who cannot play like he can? Michelle Kwan is a five-time world figure skating champion; how can a coach help her?

These athletes know what many business executives and individuals looking to improve their own performance are beginning to realize: with a coach on their side, they are able to achieve more than they would on their own. As clients try to improve their "game," coaches can provide an objective eye, new insights and perspectives, and much-needed support.

Who can benefit from working with a coach? Anyone who wants to enhance performance, gain clarity and focus, add a new skill or achieve challenging goals.

Professional coaching is a partnership between a qualified coach and an individual or team that encourages the achievement of superior results, based on desired outcomes and goals determined by the client. Executives, entrepreneurs and individuals looking to improve and succeed employ coaches to help them reach their potential. Coaches work with clients on issues ranging from goal-setting and developing focus to leadership and communications skills.

One important distinction: coaching is not therapy. A coach is concerned with the present, and with positively impacting the client's future. The aim is for client and coach to problem-solve together in order to help achieve specific goals.

The process begins with an extensive in-person interview. This meeting serves to collect personal data, define the working relationship, identify and prioritize the client's challenges and opportunities, and agree upon specific desired outcomes.

Weekly coaching sessions normally last 40 to 60 minutes and are conducted either in person or by telephone. The agenda is determined by the client's needs. The content of the calls typically includes

• the clarification of the client's direction/vision,
• identifying whatever may be preventing the client from moving in that direction,
• setting challenging, yet attainable goals,
• weekly assignments and
• follow-up emails to ensure accountability.

Accountability

Commitment and accountability are crucial to achievement. The American Society of Training and Development (ASTD) conducted research on the probability of individuals' completing a goal. The following graphic demonstrates their findings: