Structured Approach
Phase One
Begins by meeting with the sponsor to discuss the programme structure and likely problem areas to be addressed. What are the sponsor’s expectations and in what kind of time period? Depending on how the sponsor and client want to structure the programme, a typical coaching process can involve five or six meetings, each of approximately two hours duration, over a three-month period.
There is a need to clearly understand the notion of confidentiality, the contracting-in procedure and the communication process to be adopted between the sponsor, the coachee and the coach. To maintain on-going communication throughout the period of contract, direct telephone contact and personal email communication is offered to the coachee as standard.
Phase Two
Commences with an opening discussion between the coach and the coachee about the contracting-in process. There has to be a sense that an effective two-way relationship based on trust can be established and the coachee is willing to be coached. Once a basic relationship has been established, a discussion of the key issues, initial goals and objectives can be agreed.
Typical issues include interpersonal relationships (one-to-one effectiveness, manager-subordinate relationships, one-group interaction and managing relationships – both at a distance and remotely) plus specific managerial skills such as objective setting and performance management, team development and training, change management, assertiveness, delegation and motivation.
Consideration of broader career aspirations might also be raised, discussed and options generated. At the outset and between sessions it may be appropriate to carry out psychometric assessment and/or 360° feedback, with the agreement of the sponsor and client. eras has its own professionally accredited range of psychometric tools and in-house capability to administer these on behalf of the client.
Phase Three
This is all about developing the relationship, discussing issues, identifying actions and following them through with appropriate measurement of progress. A typical coaching session will:
- Look back at agreed actions and review assignments
- Discuss issues arising Interpret any psychometrics and give accurate feedback
- Explore blockers and drivers to change
- Re-evaluate and reframe key issues and goals
- Problem solve and action plan with agreement of measures
- Provide tools/techniques/methods to increase competence in something specific.
Phase Four
Involves the implementation of action plans with appropriate coaching from a distance and shadowing as necessary. This can be delivered through email and telephone contact as agreed between the sponsor, the coach and the coachee.
