In this webtorial, Coach Bongi facilitated our discussion on what makes a great coach, and what distinguishes great coaches from good coaches. Many traits of a good coach are common sense. However, how a coach applies the principles consistently and in a connected way is what separates great coaches from good coaches.
We all know that active listening is important in any coaching session. We need to listen to understand our coachee, listen with empathy, pick up emotional and non-verbal cues, and validate our understanding of the coachee. However, what resonated with me is showing enthusiasm when we listen – a genuine interest in what the coachee is telling us, and curiosity in finding out more about them. I believe when we as coaches listen with enthusiasm, our actions will be amplified and we will create greater impact on the coachee.
Being inspirational is also an essential trait but we should not just send the coachee soaring in the sky with their big ambitions without actionable steps that they can take to achieve their goals. Nothing will change if the coachee does not take any action. So it is important that we work with the coachee to develop a plan, a path to their goals, and track their progress.
Many of us also identified integrity and creating trust as important principles. The key is applying these principles consistently in everything we do and say. Trust is built over a long time but it can be destroyed instantly by the smallest action. By showing integrity and building trust, we create a safe space for our coachee to open up and to reflect without being judged. Only through self-examination will the coachee be able to explore their strengths and weaknesses and have the confidence to take actions towards achieving their goals.
“A good coach can change a game, a great coach can change a life”
As a coach, I want to change not only my coachee’s life. Through the actions of my coachee, I hope they will in turn change other lives.
