While it might be true that not everyone needs a coach right now, there are certainly times in our careers where coaching and coaches are incredibly helpful at getting over challenges or to goals. As I noted in a previous article, how do you know when you might need a coach is sometimes a challenging question. If you’re still unsure, it could be that you have one of the five objections noted below. If so, this article is for you. Let’s dig in.
“I’m not sure coaching will actually make a difference for me.”
Many successful leaders have found that coaching can help them identify blind spots, improve their communication and interpersonal skills, and develop a clearer vision for their career.. In fact, a recent study found that coaching can increase productivity and job satisfaction by up to 80%. It could be that you are unsure how coaching will benefit you specifically. The only way to find that out is to have a first session. Many coaches offer to discuss the process or even an initial coaching session for free. A good coach will walk you through the process, get into detail about how you can be assisted, and even tell you when they are NOT the right fit or skill set for you.
“I don’t have the time for coaching sessions.”
Time is a precious commodity. Keep in mind that coaching sessions can often be tailored to fit your schedule. Many coaches offer virtual, weekend, and evening sessions to make things more convenient. Additionally, investing time in coaching can ultimately save you time by helping you become a more effective leader and make better decisions. By improving skills like time management, planning, and team dynamics, you save yourself time in leading teams and dealing with difficult situations.
Coaching sessions may be as little as 30 minutes several times a month up to an hour or ninety minutes, fewer times per month. The level of commitment outside the coaching sessions is entirely up to the client, but most external work falls into the range of one to six hours per week, depending on what you are already doing. Most of the time, coaching is about incorporating new practices into what you are already doing.
“I don’t think I need coaching – I already have plenty of experience as a leader.”
Having experience is certainly valuable, but even the most successful leaders can benefit from coaching. Coaching can help you take your skills to the next level, overcome obstacles that you may not even be aware of, and provide you with a valuable outside perspective. Leadership and executive coaching spans the whole gamut of leadership levels – from aspiring managers to CEOs. In fact, CEOs who were once stigmatized for receiving coaching assistance now find it essential to handle the day to day complexities that come with running large corporations. Point is, everyone has something they can learn. Shopping around for what you need is important. A really good coach will tell you up front if they don’t feel they can help and will provide guidance on who is, or even refer you.
“I’m not comfortable sharing personal information with a coach.”
All coaches know and understand that opening up to someone can be difficult, especially if you don’t know them very well. However, coaching is a completely confidential process, and everything we discuss in our sessions is strictly between us. Coaches will never share your information with anyone without your express permission. Even if your coaching is paid for by your company, it does not have a right to anything discussed during sessions. They do not get access to the coach’s assessment of your skills, abilities, and goals. Additionally, any assessments you take are kept confidential. Nothing in them is shared with others, unless you explicitly and expressly permit it.
“I’m not sure I can afford coaching services.”
Investing in coaching can seem like a big financial commitment. However, coaching can ultimately pay off in the form of increased job satisfaction, better decision-making, and improved leadership skills. Coaching provides reusable skills that take the place of trial and error. No leader wants to inflict their learning on their employees. Coaches can speed this process up, quicken your leadership evolution, and bring results quickly. What about real $$ you say? A recent study estimated an astounding 788% return on investment for executive coaching. Lastly, many coaches offer a variety of pricing options, including payment plans or sliding scales, to make coaching more accessible. Still not convinced? Check out the 2009 International Coaching Federation global survey on investment return on coaching.
There are other reasons that people forego coaching when offered. The corporate world is rife with situations where we have good leaders who are not mentored. They find little guidance from their leadership. Classes and training are not enough. We sometimes need that push to get through difficult situations and improve our toolbox with new tools and training. A coach is perfectly placed to be an unbiased thought partner. They can be an honest sounding board, and help you get up that a difficult step.
Is this an area that you’re passionate about and want to change for yourself? Conversation and coaching can support you in your change. Feel free to drop me a line to find out how! You can use my contact form here.
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