Initial Contracting: It is highly recommended that the client has the opportunity to select the coach to ensure that the chemistry is right between the coach and client. Contracting procedures include: understanding the success factors for the executive's role, defining the business context and expected results for the coaching programme, reaching agreement on confidentiality boundaries, establishing milestones and timelines, and signing off on financial terms. These activities may involve conversations with the executive's manager, human resources, and corporate accounting.
Background and Assessment: The client and coach meet to discuss pertinent background information and establish specific action items. Together they create a plan for gathering feedback from the client's key stakeholders in the organisation (supervisor, peers, reports, customers). This step ensures that the client has a well-rounded picture of his/her current performance. In some cases, specific corporate feedback tools (360-degree) and/or other coaching tools (Behavioural Style, Emotional Intelligence) will be utilized.
Feedback Dialogue and Action Planning: Client and coach review and discuss the garnered feedback and any assessment results. Current performance is compared to expected performance, and then objectives for coaching are developed along with specific action plans. Key stakeholders are invited to validate the executive's action plan to be sure that planned improvements are consistent with expectations, and to garner stakeholder commitment to supporting the executive's development.
Active Learning: In this step, development strategies are implemented. Dialogue between the client and coach confirms that milestones are being met and the coaching process is focused on business needs.
Reviewing and Sustaining Success: At some point following the initial feedback gathering session (about 4-6 months), the executive is reassessed and/or new feedback on performance is gathered to determine the impact of the coaching process. The coach is also assessed to ensure quality of the process.
