What exactly is coaching
As a person whose focus is on Mentoring and how it supports a persons growth journey in a business environment, we should show occasionally remind readers that mentoring is just one facet/tool in our growth journey- To this end, Ellen Donnely at has written an insightful article explain what coaching is and why it is important.
A clever portion of the post is where she suggests some questions to ask of oneself to understand if one is looking for a Therapist, Mentor or Coach
What you should know about coaching
Written By Ellen Donnelly
My thoughts - What is coaching, exactly?
Coaching at its core is a goal-focused and collaborative relationship between a coach and their client.
It is typically
Short term
Formal and structured
Specific and measurable
Performance driven
I believe that coaching, in a business environment, is a strategic partnership between a coach and a client which is designed to foster professional growth and enhance productivity. It's crucial to understand that coaching goes beyond merely giving instructions or directives. Instead, it aims to unlock potential, improve skills, and cultivate a mindset geared towards continuous learning and development.
A coach helps to clarify goals, develop actionable strategies for achieving them, and foster accountability for results. This process involves insightful questioning, constructive feedback, and consistent encouragement, supporting a transformative journey from current performance levels to desired outcomes. It's a powerful tool that can catalyze personal growth and innovation within a business context, ultimately driving improved performance, job satisfaction, and business success.
Some of the benefits are :
Enhanced Decision Making and Problem-Solving Skills: A coach can provide new perspectives and insights, leading to improved decision-making abilities. They can also help mid-level managers to hone their problem-solving skills, enabling them to effectively tackle business challenges and make strategic decisions.
Improved Leadership and Communication Skills: Through targeted feedback and development strategies, a coach can help managers enhance their leadership abilities, fostering a positive and productive work environment. This includes improving communication skills, which are crucial for effective team management and collaboration.
Personal Growth and Career Advancement: Coaching provides a structured environment for personal growth, allowing managers to gain a clearer understanding of their strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. This self-awareness can lead to improved performance and job satisfaction, paving the way for further career advancement.