How to Coach Yourself and Others How To Perform On The Job Coaching | Page 107

Refer trainees to Unit 1 for this discussion. Point out that each box is related to the questions in the corresponding box on the form they just completed. This activity can be started individually or in small groups. Bring the class back together to discuss the positive and negative characteristics the trainees have recognized in their past coaches. You may want to put the positive list on a flip chart and hang it on the wall for later reference. WWIFM? - What is in it for me? Have each trainee write an answer to the question. Some examples are: - Improving the skills of my work team; - Learning ways to teach my children new skills; - Gaining respect in the organization. Facilitate a discussion of what the workshop participants can gain from becoming OJT coaches. Summarize this unit by defining a coach and reviewing characteristics of a good coach. 8.10 Unit 2: The Coach/Trainee Relationship A coach must create a learning environment for the trainee. This section discusses the relationship needed between coach and trainee. Establishing a relationship is the first step in the process of coaching. See Unit 2 for discussion of the three C’s: communication, collaboration, commitment. Techniques to establish the three C’s: Listening, Observing, Questioning, Rephrasing Communication Communication needs to move through four stages. Sometimes the process goes quickly and at other times it is slow and deliberate. Step 1: Exchanging information leads us to want to know if our message was received and understood. Therefore, we move to the next step in the process. Step 2: Ensuring understanding. There are techniques you can use to determine if the listener not only received your message but understands the message and its intent. Step 3: Establish Trust and Belief. The listener must not only understand what is said, but also believe it. Step 4: Commitment to Action. Often, in the communication process, all that we have to go on is the listener’s statement of what they will do. That is why it is called a commitment to action and not just an action. We have to listen for the commitment. If it is not forthcoming you may need to probe to find out why. Discussion Point: What happens if the listener understands, but doesn’t trust or believe that what was said is reasonable or the right thing to do? Understanding does not always come easily. It is the result of skill and effort. 107