Coaching is not about giving advice but responding with questions that help people find their own solutions. The next time someone asks you for advice, respond as a coach.
1. Pause before responding.
Practice stopping for a moment after a request for advice, and then consider whether you should coach the person to find their own solution or give them your answer.
2. Probe for perspective.
Ask the person what their view is on the issue.
3. Place importance on emotions.
People with problems are not machines, hence the importance of recognizing emotions. Try asking: How do you feel about this problem?
4. Promote ownership and accountability.
Encourage the person to own their part of the problem; ask: What's in your control to influence the outcome here?
5. Propel the coachee toward action.
Finish your conversation with a tangible, concrete action—for example, ask: What's one small and safe step you can take to move forward toward solving this issue?
