Over the festive period, many of us will have reflected on our successes over the past twelve months and considered areas of development for the year ahead. And while professional growth should be ongoing, January feels particularly appropriate for setting new goals and determining how they can best be achieved. For leaders and managers, it could be the ideal opportunity to consider coaching.
Statistics have shown that coaching can have a positive impact on both individuals and the businesses they work for, with The Institute of Coaching stating that over 70% of workers reported an increase in performance, better relationships and stronger communication skills after they had been coached.
What is Executive Coaching?
“Who, exactly, seeks out a coach? If you ask a coach the answer is usually the same: Winners who want even more out of life,” says author John Whitmore in his bestseller, Coaching for Performance (2010). Coaching if often regularly used by successful individuals who need time to reflect and refocus on particular aspects of their personal and professional lives to help them become even more successful.
In essence, coaching involves uncovering an individual’s strengths and development areas then uses these to find ways to help people achieve their goals. An effective coach should assist in self-discovery, rather than provide advice; through regular sessions, usually one-to-one, the coach will use “active listening and thoughtful questioning” to support their client.
What are the Benefits of Coaching?
The benefits of coaching go far beyond merely identifying skills and establishing goals – it can make professionals feel more productive, proactive, positive and happier in life. Just as in our personal lives, it can often take an alternative perspective to realise where we need to improve at work. With a qualified coach, it’s possible to uncover areas you may have missed and to then set goals to achieve meaningful results.
Even the most successful of professionals can forget the fundamental foundations of good business practice and efficient leadership. Coaching can therefore provide a helpful reminder of important areas, such as time management and finding a better work-life balance, which are important for wellbeing. Resilience is also a primary concern following the pandemic; by working with a coach, leaders can learn how to manage stressful situations, boost self-confidence and provide more support for themselves and their teams.
How To Find a Professional Coach
Unsurprisingly, coaching can be a very personal experience, so it’s worth spending the time to find a coach who suits your needs and your personal style. At Sherring Associates, we aim to provide executive coaching tailored to each individual we work with, we spend time matching coaches and offering flexible programmes delivered in either one-to-one or group sessions. Please click here for further details on our website or contact Angela Sherring, directly to discuss your needs: 07962 871144 / angela@sherringassociates.co.uk.