What
are the Top 10 Reasons Business Leaders Hire Coaches?
People’s
reasons for doing things are always uniquely their own, but
there are ten overriding reasons leaders hire coaches. These
are particularly important in light of today's fast-changing
workplace.
1.
To improve the existing culture of the company. Company
cultures are changing from autocratic, rigid systems to decentralized,
collaborative enterprises. A coach can facilitate this transformation
by working with leaders to create an optimum operating environment
that honors their own leadership styles and engages all players
as contributing members.
2.
To increase their ability to leverage their time and talent.
The sense of never having enough time is a key
stressor in today’s world, and there is little precedent
for much that we set out to accomplish. A coach supports
those who have responsibility for an organization in discerning
how to leverage their time and unique talent most effectively.
3.
To improve the way they come across to others. Business
leaders must continually upgrade their leadership methods
in order to stay ahead of an increasingly fickle customer
base and an ever more transient work force. Character and
communication skills are vital. A coach helps leaders live
their greatest intentions and engender voluntary “followership.”
4.
To have fostering discussions regarding ideas that are still
in the inkling stage. Often the next evolution of
a company is conceived during open “big picture”
discussions. Many leaders don't take enough time for this
type of creativity. A coach is a skilled listeningpartner
who ensures that a leader’s inklings, ideas, and concerns
are respected and explored.
5.
To get feedback from someone who is not vested in the outcome
of the situation. Those who respond to leaders often
feel a need to either maintain the status quo or make changes
that better meet their needs. Self-interest is normal, but
the lack of objectivity can lead to a "not invented here"
culture. A coach's only priority is support and objective
feedback.
6.
To clarify, expand upon, and clearly put into words their
vision for the organization. A huge, yet clear and
simple vision has a very natural way of reducing the need
for management and constant motivation. A coach is an expert
at languaging who assists leaders in articulating the concepts
and goals that will propel their companies toward excellence.
7.
To have a safe, productive and confidential outlet for venting
frustration. Pent-up
disappointments and anger impair good judgment. Every leader
needs someone with whom they can talk things out. A coach
ensures that these conversations release tension, help the
individual gain a healthy perspective and, when necessary,
allow appropriate action to be planned.
8.
To point out what the individual can't, won't, or doesn't
see. Smart business people understand that they have
blind spots, and most look for someone who will speak frankly
and illuminate these areas. Office politics often interfere.
A coach has an ethical obligation to point out what has been
overlooked and encourage people in leadership to explore them.
9.
To enable themselves to handle a faster flow of information.
Assimilating and analyzing huge amounts of data is enhanced
when an individual has an efficient mental process. A coach
helps today’s overwhelmed leader process information,
discern what is important to them, decide what they can disregard,
and know what needs to be delegated.
10.
To find a better way to reduce stress, increase effectiveness,
and still have a great life. The days of work-is-all-that-matters
are coming to an end. Leadership today requires a clear-thinking
individual who is in touch with all the important aspects
of life. A coach works with people to design a balanced and
sustainable personal and professional life.
Adapted
from “The Top 10 Reasons a Corporate Executive Hires
a Coach” by Thomas J. Leonard. |
