Before reading this section I suggest that you take a look at the Ethos section to gain an understanding of the principles underpinning the coaching programme. Both training and coaching can help people develop sustainable behaviours and become more effective. Training is conducted in groups and coaching is usually a one-to-one function, although group coaching sessions can also be very effective. Coaching is an intensive fast-track approach for individuals who will benefit from addressing their existing practices and developing new and wiser ways of working and living their lives. During a one-to-one coaching session it is possible to address sensitive issues in a way which is sometimes difficult in large groups, particularly with more senior team members and managers.
I have been running management and personal development programmes for a variety of organisations across Britain since 1989 and have been providing on-going coaching and support for many individuals during that time.
Why Coaching?
People who seek coaching services often express the need for support in both clarifying and realising their goals and would prefer to do it on a one-to-one basis. Sometimes we lose track of where we are, what we are trying to achieve and how we are going to achieve it – coaching helps us to define both our path and our destination.
Perhaps what we have done before does not work now or is not sustainable in the long term – and the cracks are beginning to show. Satisfaction may be less than it could be and energy levels low. Coaching is a focusing and “drawing out” activity in which the person being coached is at the centre and the solution lies within them. It helps individuals to gain focus, make decisions and identify any behavioural changes needed to achieve their potential in a sustainable way. The coach provides an objective position, a “listening ear” and the support required to maintain the momentum when the pressure is on.
How does it work?
As a coach I combine both my skills and experience as a personal and management development trainer and those of the Top Coach (a dynamic coaching programme I have developed over a number of years). The role is developmental and exploratory rather than advisory.
The aim of the Coaching Programme is to develop both the confidence and the competence of the individual through a practical and solutions based approach encouraging the use of sustainable behaviours and wiser working and living strategies. The sessions are relaxed, informal and confidential to enable individuals to explore the issues and come up with workable solutions.
Group coaching sessions can also be arranged to assist groups in defining their direction and developing wiser working solutions. A training programme for managers on Group Coaching Techniques as well as Coaching Skills, using the highly effective Top Coach model, can also be arranged (see Training Modules and Management Skills Training for more information).