Team Building Tips

Executive coaching is an excellent way to get the most out of your team - but how do you do it? Instead of wading through the many books and training courses on the subject, why not try out the easy six tips below?

Tip 1 - Don't give people solutions to their problems

If your team comes to you with their challenges, don't tell them the answer. Coach them by asking questions that will help them evaluate their situation and lead them to working out their own solution. At first this can seem time consuming, but soon you will notice people relying on you less.

Tip 2 - Coach using open questions

These are ones that start with who, what, where, when, how or why. They can't be answered by a yes or a no. They open people up and get them thinking.

Tip 3 - Use silence

Beware of jumping into every pause, it could mean they're thinking things through. Even if it seems uncomfortable,wait and see what happens.

Tip 4 - GROW your coaching session!

Use the GROW technique to structure coaching conversations. G stand for Goals, firstly work out what they're trying to achieve. R stands for Reality, ask questions to find out what their current situation is. O stand for Options, get the person to think through several ways to solve their challenge. Lastly W stands for Wrap-up, get commitment that they'll do one of the options.

Tip 5 - Let people make mistakes

Within reasonable parameters, if you see your team making mistakes, don't stop them. Let them learn from their actions

Tip 6 - Give praise

When you spot people doing good stuff tell them! Make it genuine though, insincerity is easy to spot. Being appreciated is very motivating.

© 2008 David Hinde David Hinde is a recognised expert in management development and [http://www.orgtopia.com]executive coaching in the UK He founded Orgtopia in 2003 & since has helped many organisations such as the BBC, Citigroup and the British Army to develop and unlock their leadership and management potential. To view the original of this article go to: manager as coach tips