each other . It ’ s even true to say that coaching is quite similar to dating - you need good chemistry to create a relationship that will yield great results .
The level of trust you have in your coach needs to be top tier . This will allow you to share your deepest fears in a safe environment , and it ’ s only by confronting these biggest obstacles that you will be able to tackle them and navigate to the solutions most effectively .
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Understanding the roads to potential failures and having the discernment to avoid them is more important than anything learned from notable successes . The benefit of hindsight should not be underestimated , and a seasoned coach can offer a wealth of it .
Effective coaching is long-term and not a short-term prospect , which is again , comparable to a romantic relationship . It will take time to get the best from it and the benefits will increase progressively .
Some of the best coaching partnerships I have seen have extended to decades , and in some examples , they evolved into genuine friendships that outlived the professional partnership .
The proven methodologies I use in my coaching
My coaching method is based on regular one-on-one engagements , in confidence , and each engagement varies based on the CEO ’ s specific needs . I ’ m keeping in mind that each CEO goes through a unique and evolving set of circumstances , and this requires a uniquely evolving set of solutions and approaches to navigate correctly .
My method revolves around intense enquiry and questioning , to really understand their problems . I often have to do a lot of the digging , rather than expect to have it exhumed for me .
Most of the time , a CEO approaches a coaching session from the perspective of addressing a symptom of a problem they don ’ t understand or are conscious of the root of it . This process of probing questioning is ongoing until the core of the problem is discovered . However , if it ’ s a personal leadership skill they are trying to enhance , then I would use a variety of proven assessments such as the Myers Briggs frame-work . This gives a solid understanding of where you are , where you want to be , and what you need to add in terms of capabilities and experiences to achieve the desired result .
I have also enjoyed and had great results using the ‘ 5 why ’ s ’ in my analytical approach . Ultimately , this process of coaching can be construed as an amicable interrogation . It may delve into some uncom-fortable truths and admissions of faults , but the end goal is to smash through those roadblocks and get the client to where they want and need to be to progress their success in business .
Even the greatest kings throughout history had advisors that were invaluable in their reign ; the same should be thought for business leaders .
Lionel Marumahoko , an Executive Coach , Leadership Speaker and Business Advisor who specializes in complex transformation growth and new market entry in Africa , is the CEO of BPL Africa Connect . You can commune with him via email at : Ltmarumahoko @ bplafricaconnect . com .