Mentoring 101

[Marcelle C]

Are we asking the right questions, getting the right answers and moving in the right direction?

http://eslpod.com/eslpod_blog/wp-content/uploads/2007/10/question-mark.JPG

The GROW model (Grow, Reality, Options, Wrap-up) provides a positive, solution focused way to define what is important to you and helps you reach your goals.

The GROW model in action:

GROW
What would I like to happen that is not happening now?

REALITY
(Realistic starting point)
What effect does this have on me?

OPTIONS
(Choices)
What could I do to change this situation?
Which option is of most interest to me?

WRAP-UP
(Action)
What are the next steps?
What might prevent me from reaching my goal?

A GROW model case example:

COACH:
So what would you like to focus on today? (First attempt to set a goal.)

COACHEE:
I’m not sure – having better team spirit I guess. (Vague response.)

COACH:
What would better team spirit look like? (Clarifying – making the goal more specific.)

COACHEE:
I’m not sure. I guess it’s to do with better communication and common goals.(Slightly more specific goal, yet still vague.)

COACH:
Tell me more about that? (Open response, inviting more detail.)

COACHEE:
Well, the team would be sharing ideas on a more regular basis and updating each other so we can keep on top of new sales opportuniteis. (The goal is getting more specific.)

COACH:
So our goal is to develop a means of updating each other with new ideas in a a way that leads to identifiying new sales opportunities? (This reflects the idea back.. The goal is now clarer and starts to become more SMART.) Let’s kick that around for a bit …… how do you see that working? (This is what the coach finishes with.)

How can I learn more about the GROW model?
Coaching and Mentoring (http://portal.aimnsw.com.au/showcoursedetail.aspx?PID=QQF8AA01CTY7)

[Burgo]

Are we asking the right questions, getting the right answers and moving in the right direction?

Probably not.

Even the most successful business person doesnt know everything and being able to use the right tools can make this person more successful than they already are.

Today we have " The Coach" who is able to encourage this development through the Grow model.
Years ago there were no coaches to help with your development, so I used my accountant who played "Devils advocate". Not quite as sofisticated as the coach of today, and I didnt get the benefits that a professionally trained coach can offer.

For what its worth, even if you are the leader of a multi billion dollar oreration, or someone going solo, try a coach, you will not regret their worth.

[Marcelle C]

Yes Burgo,

In the role of a Coach, asking the right questions rather than telling is the way to go.

Cheers Marcelle