Five Things Leadership Coaching Is Not

Photo Credit: Emily Giacomini

You may be wondering about leadership coaching- what is it exactly? Perhaps you have friends managing teams and they’ve tried coaching with varying degrees of success. As you explore, one way to understand coaching is by getting clear on what it does not entail . . .

Leadership coaching is NOT:

Counseling– clear boundaries exist between coaching and therapy. While feelings are key to self-understanding and fair game in coaching, a certified coach will recommend professional counseling if a topic starts to cross the line.

Consulting- the role of a coach is not to recommend business options for your consideration. We trust that you are whole, resourceful and creative and therefore fully capable of seeking resources as appropriate.

Cheerleading- while coaches are supportive and “in your corner” we won’t be over-the-top in cheering you on when you share good news or even a difficult moment. We’ll be more curious about how you’re responding to the situation, whether it’s to celebrate a victory or encounter a challenge in a life-giving way.

Comforting- while coachees often leave sessions grateful that they happened, coaches aim to stay neutral, not automatically adopting a client’s perspective, which gives the client more freedom to explore her own responses to situations.

Cajoling- coaching offers a mirror to the coachee so he can assess how he shows up and where he wants to go next, without the coach pushing an agenda.

If you’re a leader who’s curious and wants to explore how coaching may impact your particular scenario, reach out to Emily@VolareInsights.com for a call.

I look forward to connecting with you!