7 Coaching Habits Every Great Coach Practices Regularly
Coaching is a transformative relationship between the coach and the client, whereby the coach helps the client realize their potential and achieve their goals. It requires not only empathy and communication but also the right habits and practices to bring out the best in the client. Here are the seven coaching habits every great coach practices regularly:
1. Listening Empathetically
The most critical part of coaching is to listen empathetically. It is the coach’s responsibility to understand the client’s perspective and experiences without any judgment or bias. Listening empathetically means not only hearing what the client says but also understanding their body language, tone of voice, and emotions. It helps the coach gain the client’s trust and build rapport, which can lead to better coaching outcomes.
2. Asking Powerful Questions
Asking powerful questions can help the client gain clarity and insight into their problems or goals. A great coach uses open-ended questions that require thought and reflection. These questions can help the client uncover their underlying beliefs, values, and motivations. It is important to note that the coach should avoid leading questions or imposing their own beliefs on the client.
3. Giving Feedback Effectively
Feedback is crucial in coaching as it helps the client learn and grow. A coach’s feedback should be specific, objective, and non-judgmental. It should focus on the client’s behavior and how it affects their goals. A great coach also asks for feedback from the client to improve their own coaching skills.
4. Setting SMART Goals
Setting specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals can help the client stay focused and motivated. A great coach helps the client define their goals and break them down into actionable steps. It is also important to celebrate milestones and successes along the way.
5. Facilitating Reflection
Reflection is a powerful tool in coaching as it helps the client examine their thoughts, experiences, and behaviors. A great coach facilitates reflection by asking probing questions, encouraging self-awareness, and helping the client connect their insights to their goals.
6. Providing Accountability
Accountability is essential in coaching as it helps the client stay on track and committed to their goals. A great coach provides accountability by checking in with the client regularly, holding them responsible for their actions, and helping them overcome any obstacles.
7. Continuously Learning and Improving
A great coach never stops learning and improving. They seek feedback from their clients and colleagues, attend training and workshops, and stay updated with the latest tools and techniques in coaching. Continuously learning and improving can help the coach provide better support and guidance to their clients.
In conclusion, coaching is a powerful relationship that requires the coach to practice habits that foster trust, growth, and accountability. By listening empathetically, asking powerful questions, giving feedback effectively, setting SMART goals, facilitating reflection, providing accountability, and continuously learning and improving, a great coach can help their clients achieve their full potential.
