How to Use an Executive Coach
09/20/2024 0 Comment
Executive Coaching is an interesting career. Even when people pay for my services, when they're starting out, they often ask me, "What do other executives talk about?"
In the past two days, I have had two executives talk about the same topic: how to be open with my direct report versus stating that the debate now is over and they need to take my direction.
In one instance, the executive needed to limit the amount of a raise that a direct report wanted to grant to their direct report. In the second instance, the executive wanted to guide a direct report not to hire one person, but to hire another person in the final interview stage. In both instances, the theme was the same: As a leader, I need to make the decision, and also, I do not want to be that "boss" who tells another what to do.
Both conversations were fantastic, as each executive explored how they felt about what was happening, and then they decided how to move forward.
A misconception is that a coach will tell you what to do or will give you advice. However, that is the role of a consultant, rather than a coach. A great coach will help you to see choices in front of you, explore your feelings and interpretations of the event, and then you will determine what to do, once you have clarity.
So, for those of you considering hiring an executive coach, I recommend you find that fit for you-- someone who listens actively and who you "gel" with.
For more information on executive coaching, feel free to message me on LinkedIn, or contact us at Admin@TAFLAT.com.
Author
Jim Glantz is the Managing Partner of The Academy For Leadership And Training (TAFLAT). A 20+ year Executive of Organizational Development & Training, Jim holds a doctoral degree in Organizational Development and a Masters in Education from UCLA. Jim is an Associate Professor & the author of numerous articles.