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Why Executives Hire a Coach
By Christine Brown
To ensure they focus on the big picture.
It is easy for leaders to become enmeshed in the implementation and operational aspects of a situation and lose sight of long term goals. The Executive Coach is masterful in keeping the executive focused on what really matters and empowering them to let go of concerns better managed by others.
To enable them to enhance team performance.
Leaders succeed because they are able to accomplish things through others. Strong , cohesive, effective teams are vital to the success of the organization. Team building and support are some of the biggest challenges executives face. The Executive Coach can often provide insights and options which will aid the executive in leading their teams.
To explore how to best handle highly sensitive issues in total confidence.
Most executives find it valuable to gain a perspective on sensitive issues from an experienced executive with no stake in the outcome. The Executive Coach is willing to openly discuss worst case scenarios and ask the questions no one else is asking.
To support them in transforming the culture of the organization.
Traditional, autocratic management practices are giving way to more decentralized, entrepreneurial, cooperative environments. But making such a transition requires skill and commitment. The Executive Coach supports and encourages the executive to envision and articulate the ideal culture for the organization and create a plan to facilitate the adoption of this enhanced culture by all involved.
To enhance the executive's self awareness and further develop their interpersonal skills.
Successful leaders develop a full complement of communication techniques and selectively use them as the situation requires. Effective leaders must be fully aware of how and what they are communicating at all times. The skillful delivery of directives and information is imperative for the long term success of the organization. The Executive Coach acts as a mirror for the executive and provides additional ideas and techniques to extend the executive's range.
To listen to the executive's ideas.
Often the evolution of a company or its strategy is conceived in an open discussion of ideas. Most executives don't take enough time for this type of creativity nor do they have the right "listening partner." The Executive Coach provides the environment in which the executive's inklings, ideas and concerns are respected and expanded. An Executive Coach is a sounding board.
To provide honest and constructive feedback.
Everyone the executive interacts with, including their family, has a need to either maintain the status quo or to advocate for changes that benefit themselves. This self-interest is normal, but lacks the objectivity of a neutral third party. The Executive Coach is often the only person in the executive's world whose sole concern is for the best interests of the executive.
To expand upon, clarify and clearly language the executive's vision.
A clearly stated vision naturally creates focus for those you lead, reducing the need for management and constant motivation of others. The Executive Coach is an expert at language concepts, goals and visions and assists the executive to clearly articulate a vision for the organization, project or for the executive him/herself.
To have a secure, safe and confidential outlet to express their emotions.
Pent up frustrations, anger and disappointments impair good judgment. Every executive needs a safe place where they can complain, vent their anger and frustrations and talk things out. The Executive Coach provides this.
To point out what the executive can't, won't or doesn't see.
Most leaders understand that they have blind spots. Many encourage those around them to point them out. However, organizations being what they are, most individuals aren't really able to speak their minds. The Executive Coach is committed to providing the illumination the executive needs.
To acknowledge them and celebrate their wins.
Executives often make tough decisions and set priorities that are hard for others to accept. And leaders often attribute an organization's success to the work of others. The Executive Coach acknowledges the executive's leadership and role in strengthening the organization.
To enjoy their success.
Leadership today requires a clear-thinking individual who is in touch with all aspects of life, not just running an organization or leading a project team. Executives are expected to have a real life and set an example for others in the workplace. The Executive Coach works with the executive to reduce stress, increase effectiveness, and design a balanced and sustainable personal and professional life.
Original version by Stephen Cluney.
Current version Copyright ©2001 Christine Brown.
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Copyright ©2001-2005 Christine
Brown. All rights reserved.
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