Why You Need to Lead Like a Coach

In my workshop “Leader as Coach,” I help managers and executives to think like a coach and instruct them on how to use coaching tools to maximize their team’s performance and potential. You might not be a coach, but that doesn’t mean you can’t think like one and have greater influence and impact on others. Here are three tips for adapting a coaching mindset:

Coaching is about the client, not the coach: If you coached your boss, your team or your colleagues, your job would be to help them achieve their goals in a way that’s faster and easier. How? By asking them what their priorities are and offering to be of help in some way. Even if they don’t need your help right now, they will appreciate your interest and offer. When it comes time for you to be promoted, the connections and good will you create will serve you well.

Coaching is more about asking questions and listening than supplying answers: Instead of trying to dazzle others with what you know, help them discover their brilliance and come to their own solutions. There will be times when sharing your knowledge and offering solutions is appropriate. However, if you really want to stand out, think like a coach and help others think more deeply, consider other perspectives and come to their own conclusions. They will feel empowered and you will build a reputation for helping others develop their potential.

Coaching is all about results: Companies and individuals hire me as a coach for one reason--to help them create greater and more dramatic results. That’s how you should view your role as an employee. You don't get paid to put in eight or ten hours a day on your job. You’re paid to achieve the results that are important to your boss and your company. Find out what your boss’s priorities are (and those of his or her boss) and focus your talent and energy there. Let others complain about what needs to change in the company—while you become known as the person who achieves the results your boss wants.
 
-Alan Allard, Career Coach