“When you’re not there, who will coach?” That was the question I was asked by a leader within one of our State’s Divisons after sharing that I was transitioning roles within my current company. Yes, I would still be partnering to provide consulting services, including planning and training. However, at this point, professionally, I needed to carve out dedicated time to focus more intensely on working with individuals and organizations in my role as a coach. Why? Because there are considerable benefits to be gained from having a coach or a guide along the way, and I feel this is my mission, my next step. She clearly understood that too, or else she would not have even bothered to ask.
If you are like most people who have never enlisted the help of a coach, you have more than one or two questions when you think about the concept of coaching in general. Even if you’ve worked with a coach before, there may be some things you are still unsure about.
Can’t I turn to one of my friends to be a sounding board, someone to help guide me?
Yes, you could. And, sometimes that is just what you need to do. But, remember, our friends are biased. While they want the best for you, usually, it is hard for them to be objective and to help you ask the tough questions so you can arrive at the best possible outcome. Whomever you turn to, make sure you are engaging the right support at the right time.
Being someone’s coach is NOT the same as being their friend.
A coach focuses on helping you achieve your goals – whether personal, professional, health, or otherwise. They help you (the client) get clear about exactly what you want, your motivations, and the gap between where you stand now and the future you seek. A coach guides you as you create your plan for moving forward and they hold you accountable, while at the same time serve as your support.
Coaches can be tough, demanding and might feel a bit raw and unfiltered to some of us. While they are typically friendly (why would you pay money to talk to someone who could not relate to you in a warm, respectful way?), they are not your friends. When I am in a coaching relationship with someone, I like to think I am their Sherpa. I know the terrain. I have tools and supports I can provide. I can walk alongside them on their journey, but the commitment to the work IS THEIRS ALONE to sustain and do.
How do I know if coaching actually works… and is it worth it?
It does and it is. Just ask any professional athlete, actor, or musician. Even other coaches. (YES, coaches have coaches too, why not you?) Personal and executive coaching has been shown to provide nearly 5.7 times the return on investment. If facts and figures interest you, we pulled together findings on coaching to show you the benefits and the real reasons people hire coaches. Take a look at the stats we’ve compiled – do any surprise you? Are you curious about anything that we didn’t cover? Leave us your feedback or send your questions in, my inbox is always open – Sarah@SarahBoxx.com
