Trying to get to the killer question
When I first started experimenting with Coaching as an intervention, it was offered as “some one-to-one time”, as part of Leadership Development programmes that I was running at the time. It wasn’t long before I realised just how powerful this intervention was – it really made a tangible difference. In contrast to the traditional training methods, this was laser focused on real issues with which people were struggling. Feedback on progress and the ability to see things through to a conclusion added to the impact.
I started offering Executive Coaching as part of my portfolio and over time I was able to fine tune the methodology, adding proven tools and developing techniques. My success with individual Leaders led me to become a proponent of the 70/20/10 philosophy and soon I was training Leaders in the art of Coaching.
During a Coaching session, I am looking for patterns and trying to get to the “killer question”, the one that opens thinking, leads to new insights and ultimately generates new ideas and solutions. It’s all about helping the other person to get unstuck!
The measure of success? Well, I’ve had someone tap me on the shoulder in the middle of Helsinki and say “Six years ago we did that coaching session and it changed my life….”. Then there was the phone call from China – “I know it’s been four years since we last talked but I need a coach for a tricky situation and wanted the best….”. Compliments like these are why I am a Coach. Actually making a tangible impact is truly rewarding. It is a privilege to be able to help another person through some tough moments.