- [Host] Hi, and welcome to "In Conversation with..." Well, in today's show we're chatting to coach extraordinaire, Alex Kingsley. Welcome Alex.

- [Alex] Thanks.

- [Host] Let's start by talking about what coaching actually is. Can you give us an explanation?

- [Alex] Well, it's probably easier to say what coaching isn't. It's not about counseling or therapy or even giving advice. As a coach, I'm not there to provide the answers. I'm there to help people define their own answers. A good coach guides rather than dictates.

- [Host] And how do you do that?

- [Alex] Well, in essence, coaching is a series of purposeful and, hopefully, powerful conversations that look to prompt discovery, change, and growth. So my role is about assisting my coach ease in discovering their strengths and values, and I work with them to design a path towards achieving their goals.

- [Host] I see. Now you mentioned purposeful conversations. Now, presumably for coaches, understanding your own purpose is key, right?

- [Alex] Yes, that's right. A coach will work with their coachee on setting their goals, but first the coachee needs to be clear about their overall purpose. So asking yourself, why do you need coaching? What do you want coaching to achieve?

- [Host] And how would you get matched with a coach? Would your manager or someone else do that for you?

- [Alex] It's important to make sure you are working with the right coach for you. It's really helpful to have a solid idea of the outcomes you want to achieve, because then you can have a clearer idea of who could be a good coaching fit for you. Your manager may well match you with a coach, but you could also ask around for some recommendations or check coaching directories. It's always a good idea to meet with a few coaches and have an initial discussion with them. It's really important that you feel comfortable with whoever you choose.

- [Host] And what would you say makes a good coaching conversation?

- [Alex] That's all about having the right mindset and being open, open in your conversations, open to being challenged, and being present in the sessions. Be there in mind, as well as body.

- [Host] You mentioned being challenged. What kind of questions do you ask?

- [Alex] The biggest part of a coach's role is to ask challenging questions, encouraging you to reflect on your actions, decisions, and behaviors. I won't tell you what to do or how to do it. Instead, I'll ask probing, insightful questions, to help you identify solutions yourself. A good coach recognizes that the answer lies within you. It's important to answer these questions honestly, positively and openly. Yes, the questions might be uncomfortable, but I'm asking them to help, not to criticize or offend, but if a question makes you feel too uncomfortable or if you can't find the answers yourself, I'd say don't be afraid to push back. This can help me see where the boundaries lie. But of course, if you have any concerns, always be honest. Don't be afraid to say what's working for you and what isn't.

- [Host] Do you have any final advice for our audience?

- [Alex] Yes. Be ready to put the work in, be proactive. If you discuss learning opportunities with your coach, be it a new project or doing a bit of networking, act upon it. This will really help you to get the best value out of coaching and will inform your subsequent sessions.

- [Host] That's great. Thank you so much, Alex. And we'll see you next time on In conversation with... Good night. 

© 2022 Mind Tools by Emerald Works Limited.