Foundations of Solutions Based Coaching

Elements of effective coaching

A good coach is someone who displays the following attributes:

1. Excellent listening skills

A good coach displays the ability to listen for and distinguish between the process and the content in a client’s responses. For example, a client may be discussing an investment decision that left them with a feeling of regret. A good coach will be able to distinguish between the specific facts of the case (the content) and the thought process that brought about the feeling.

Often the thought process is a behavioural habit that is triggered by a range of events, not just that specific event. Being able to identify the process can help the client to consciously change their behaviour in the future.

2. Precise questioning skills

Often in the advising industry there is a tendency to want to come up with all the answers. Yet, the power of a quality question usually provides far more opportunities for learning and progress than someone else’s answer. The more precise the question, the more powerful is the likely response. Good questioning skills enable clients to gain greater clarity and understanding about their motivations, intentions, goals and strategy.

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3. Good feedback skills

Feedback is an extremely useful tool for allowing self correction and providing motivation towards agreed goals and strategies. A good coach will provide honest and non-judgmental feedback to assist clients to self correct along their path.

4. Good observation skills

The ability to step back from the content and observe is an important skill of a good coach. It enables the detection of opportunities for change and development.

5. Great communications skills

Good coaches display excellent communication skills, both verbally and non-verbally. They have the ability to clearly communicate ideas and concepts using a range of skills. A coach often uses analogies, stories and metaphors as powerful tools of communication.

6. Good motivation skills

The best advice is useless unless it is put into action. A coach understands what motivates people and can be of tremendous assistance in translating ideas and strategies into action.

7. Good accountability skills

The ability and willingness of a coach to hold a client accountable to their intentions and vision is an important aspect of success. For this to be effective, the coach needs to gain the trust and permission of the client.