There are so many techniques you can use in coaching and the common one and a very popular the first technique that is taught and it is GROW this is - Goal, Realistic, Options and Will. Everyone talks about this technique which is absolutely fantastic for setting goals, which are inspiring and challenging. These promote motivation and confidence which in turn increases productivity and personal satisfaction. I use GROW on myself and I have used it plenty of times with coachees.

GROW is a great technique but of course, it must be used and balanced with other tools and techniques. More importantly, it is about how you question as a coach and to notice what appears in front of you from the coachee.  You have to listen; GROW maybe is not what is needed. I have witnessed coaches using this technique straight away which has become a habit in their coaching. Sometimes I think it is used because the coach likes it, the problem here is the session is based on what the coach wants and not what the coachee needs, is this the best coaching?

I find it fascinating watching coaches (I mentor coaches) and I observe sessions where it has been about them and not the coachee. Most of the time they have not realised this, it can really be a paradigm shift for the coachee when they reflect on this. That change and shift in thinking and continuous improvement can create massive changes for the coaches. Lifelong learning is essential and you always have to look for areas to improve no matter how long you have been in your profession.

Claire Moody is our head coach at Target Training, and you can read more about her here.  She delivers training on all coaching and numerous training the trainer courses.