7 Steps of Coaching

Think Gray! Coaching has seven distinct steps

Step 1 - Discovery

First, we explore. The needs and wants of the client are integral to tailoring a specific coaching program that will capture anticipated benefits. Key to this discovery stage is accurately sketching out the resources, organisational support, ethics and deadlines that inform your expectations. Any conversation starts with the consideration of:

Situation: the business context in which the need for coaching has arisen.
Expectations: the anticipated outcomes and results of coaching coupled with an appreciation of the right timing.
Style: the way the coach, client and other stakeholders will work together throughout the program.
Resources: the things – both material and intangible – needed to ensure the program’s success.

Step 2 - Data Collection

Next, we define success. Coached change is even more impressive when we can recognise and measure it. Here, we establish the metrics of achievement on four different levels:

  • Personal satisfaction;
  • Changes in knowledge, skills and belief;
  • Changes in observed behaviour; and
  • Business impact and return on investment.

Our approach to data collection is necessarily bespoke as the demands of the client dictate just how success is defined. As a guide, formal assessments, structured interviews and personal development plans may be utilised as foundational tools for analysing progress.

Step 3 - Planning

Third, we strategise. Agreement on targeting certain behaviours and hitting particular milestones is vital. By establishing a results-oriented plan, we can chart the best course of action moving forward.

Step 4 - Coaching Behavioural Change

At this point, we execute. Plans take on definite form as the path to change comes into sharp relief. With a range of skills-based and rehearsal coaching methods at our disposal, Think Gray is well equipped to guide you down that path, and nimble enough to change with you as your coaching needs evolve.

Step 5 - Measurement

Fifth, we calculate. This step is all about quantifying to confirm progress with respect to the very behaviours we targeted earlier on. Where are you now as opposed to before this whole experience began? This measuring takes the form of both objective observation and honest self-assessment.

Step 6 - Evaluation

At step 6, we assess. Whether you think in terms of Return on Investment (ROI) or Return on Expectations (ROE), it is critical that you can see the business implications of your coaching outcomes. Again, what success means to you will determine how best to evaluate it but productivity, satisfaction and instances of external recognition and praise are generally good yardsticks. What is key is that by this step, you can realise how far you’ve come.

Step 7 - Maintaining Momentum

Finally, we reinforce. The ultimate goal of our coaching is to provide you with precisely the right set of tools and behaviours to not only hold on to the benefits you’ve captured but build on them into the future. This involves a commitment to self-coaching methods and habits, with the prospect of scheduled ‘check-ups’ later on to ensure you stay on track.

These seven steps are not mere self-help jargon but rather, provide a framework for change and a proven, structured way to achieve it.

To take advantage of a coaching platform that consistently exceeds expectations, please get in touch.