I come across quite a few management related blogs, books, article, etc...and I found this content from one of the many email lists I'm on.  I read it and thought it would be appropriate to share out.  I'm interested to hear feedback on this method and look forward to seeing other models/methods that this community comes up with.

Know the GROW Model

One of the most powerful ways managers can achieve business results through others is by adopting a coaching approach with their direct reports. The GROW coaching model provides you with a framework in which to conduct coaching conversations. It also provides a useful approach to conducting career discussions.

At each stage of the process, the coach focuses his or her efforts on these areas:

Goals               Establishing what the person being coached wants to achieve, asking questions, and actively listening

Reality              Exploring the current situation by inviting self-assessment, asking questions, actively listening, and providing perspective

Options            Brainstorming a full range of options, empowering, ensuring choice, asking questions, and actively listening

Will                  Motivating the person being coached to commit to taking action, supporting his or her efforts, actively listening, and asking questions

Coaching Session Tips

·         Career development coaching should focus on the individual’s performance, demonstrated skills, interests, behaviors and other observable criteria.  You should avoid basing coaching on subjective judgments about the person.

·         Use the four fundamental listening skills:

o    Attending: Show you are paying attention by nodding and maintaining eye contact.

o    Paraphrasing: Reflect back both the content and the emotion of what the other person said

o    Summarizing: Re-cap key points and provide focus

o    Clarifying: Asking clarifying questions to ensure understanding and gain more detail or explanation.

·         During your coaching session, ask focused questions such as:

o    Open-ended (what, when, how, where, which)

o    Non-leading (How do you feel about…?)

o    Clarifying: (Could you clarify what you mean by...?)