Guiding information 6.6: Practicing coaching with another middle-level leader

Before the meeting:

  • Find a middle-level leader volunteer who will be your learning partner.
  • Share the previous page with them.
  • Ask the volunteer to suggest a topic for the coaching session.
  • Prepare a few questions for each stage of the GROW model on the topic.

 During the meeting:

Remember that coaching requires a shift from telling or advising to listening and questioning. The learning partner should be doing most of the talking (not the coach). Some tips:

  • Listen actively: Being a good listener is an important part of being a good speaker.
  • Use appropriate body language, eye contact and tone of voice: A relaxed posture and a friendly voice will encourage others to listen and respond to you. Look at other people while you are speaking to them and think about what their body language is telling you.
  • Be clear and concise: Plan what you are going to say before any meetings. Speak clearly and simply.
  • Be friendly: Use a friendly tone that is approachable. This will encourage people to talk to you openly.
  • Show confidence Planning what you are going to say before any meetings or discussions will give you more confidence when you are speaking. Speaking confidently encourages people to believe in what you are saying.
  • Show empathy: Even when you disagree with someone, it is important to show that you understand their point of view.
  • Be open-minded: Show that you are listening to and understand the other person's views. Showing that you are willing to discuss things, even when you disagree with people, will result in having a more productive discussion.
  • Show respect: Show people that you respect them and their ideas. Use their name when talking to them, make eye contact and show that you are listening.
  • Give and receive feedback: Look for ways to give people feedback to show you understand what they are saying. Ask people for feedback to show that they understand you, too.

After the meeting:

  • Remember to thank the volunteer for their assistance in undertaking the coaching.
  • Write up the record, using Appendix A.
  • Make an entry in your learning diary on the coaching session.