Are You Ready to Be Coached?

 

Executive coaching can help achieve higher performance and satisfaction at work. However, it will not have the desired result unless the employee is prepared to fully devote himself to it. It requires considerable time and effort and the employee has to decide if he is ready to be coached?

One important question that crops up is whether the candidate is coachable? Seven distinct characteristics differentiate candidates who can be coached and those who cannot be.

Tolerance for discomfort

The candidate should be capable to be proactive in embracing new ways of perceiving. There could be fears about new realities. One should be able to endure periods of discomfort to realize the rewards of taking new approaches. 

Openness to experimentation

Trying out new things by its nature means taking risks and failing. Waiting for the perfect time or moment will hinder the progress. If one is unwilling to try out new things one is unlikely to be open or do the necessary thinking to change. One has to try out new ideas, fail, learn and try again.

Ability to look beyond rational

Behaviour is driven by fear, anger and pride. Knowing what to do does not mean one will act accordingly. Examining emotional dimensions would help a better understanding of one's behaviours and relationships. 

Willingness to take responsibility.

Believe that you have the power to change the future and one will develop the courage to change. Blaming the organisation, seniors would only block one's growth. It is impossible to move forward if one sees himself as a victim. Hold oneself accountable for one's progress.

Capacity for forgiveness

make peace with the past and channel energy into progress. Punishment or revenge is rarely helpful to self or others. Be willing to forgive and move on. 

Self-discipline

Development as a leader requires letting go of normal ways of thinking and acting that have helped in the past. It is necessary yo discipline oneself to say no and earn to focus on what is important to becoming a more effective leader. Stay focussed on the goals.

Ability to ask for support

During coaching one must be engaged not only with the coach but also with potential supporters. As a leader one is accountable for the results but one can develop faster by making oneself vulnerable. Share goals, ask for advice, listen, accept and act on feedback received.

Start by assessing these factors and assess the degree to which these characteristics are applicable and find out what is most challenging. It will help in developing a strong relationship with how to develop as a leader through coaching.

Are You Ready to Be Coached?
by Brenda Steinberg HBR2020/10