In the last decade, executive coaching has become more popular than ever for promising executives. These coaches have backgrounds in fields ranging from psychology, law, business academics and consultancy and can help business executives boost their performance in many areas. In this article, you will learn about the goals of executive coaching.
Objectives of executive coaching
Contrary to the opinion that executive coaching is for underperformers, it is actually a crucial aspect of leadership development. The following are the objectives of executive coaching:
Better clarity and focus
Sometimes, emerging executives can get so busy and involved that they become more subjective than objective. In this case, it may be a bonus if the coach does not have experience in the same field. The coach will listen to the situation and help the individual increase their understanding and how they process hard facts. The process may initially appear sluggish, but with each session, clarity will increase. Sometimes, managers lose focus and waste time on unimportant things, but with a better understanding of the situation, they can direct their energy on important details and ultimately become more effective.
Better accountability
Lack of accountability is executives creating excuses for not performing certain tasks that should be done or convincing themselves that pushing it to another day will have no repercussions. Coaches function as an accountability partner to help executives stay committed to tasks. By talking to the coach, they will make an effort to maintain focus.
Confidence
Negative self-talk is a powerful blockage to success. It escalates problems, pitfalls and the fear of failure so much that it can prevent the executive from making important decisions. Good coaches will help their clients build an image of success and help them prepare a solid plan or strategy to build confidence and remove doubt. Confidence is vital for success, but sometimes, it can be hard to build self-confidence without help.
More creative ideas
It can be hard to decide if an idea is excellent or poor, brilliant or terrible, unless there is a discussion to achieve clarity on the classification and reality of that idea. Many managers have dismissed a good idea because they found a way to discourage themselves or decided to opt for another lesser idea. An executive coach will prod and challenge an idea, evaluate its feasibility and help their client improve it or understand that more viable options are available.
Better decision making
Everyone has preconceived notions, stereotypes, prejudices or opinions about people or situations that cloud their judgment and can hinder effective performance and decision making. Having someone with an unbiased perspective to differentiate between reality and perception can help executives see things as they are and make better choices.
In conclusion
Executive coaching effects meaningful change, accomplished using specific tools and techniques. Books, seminars, conferences and training courses are important, but actual progress comes with having a professional coach who can help you improve your focus, boost your confidence, hold you accountable and help you gain insight on important matters.
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