WHO NEEDS COACH OR A MENTOR
There is plenty of literature in the business world about Coaching/Mentoring which concentrates on the HOW. Phrases such as performance enhancement, behavioral improvement and sustained growth, but we believe some fundamental questions before the HOW are WHO and WHY.
WHO
That often-repeated phrase “it’s lonely at the top” (or its lonely getting to the top) is in fact a truism, and whilst the traditional supports of Peers, Leaders, Boards and Chairs are all fundamental to growth often there are intentional/unintentional biases and roadblocks which can stymie growth and success.
Progressive Boards and CEOs can see that an external resource is able to look at an individual and prevailing challenge in an independent and objective manner which is not colored by the internal history and politics of the organisation or individuals within. It is not only for those Executives who are considered to have high potential but can also be for those who may be positively plateaued and need a reboot in their performance.
At VUCA we have completed a great number of mentoring/coaching engagements at various levels:
- Developing/preparing Executive Management to be internal candidates for CEO roles. With multiple successes in this area where organisations have conducted national searches only to find their internal candidate was the best fit.
- Coaching new and existing CEOs/C suite management to improve performance.
- Coaching/Mentoring Chairs and Board Members in best practice governance and board behavior principles.
- Assisting organisations in preparing individuals for major change.
Smart organisations are investing significantly more dollars in mentoring/coaching than ever before. Many Executive MBA programs now incorporate executive coaching into their curriculum with participation rising from 55% in the early 2010’s to over 90% currently.
WHY
In the competitive hunt for human capital in Australia, business coaching/mentoring is becoming an essential part of the tools required by Executives, Boards and Business Owners who want to improve their skills, make smart choices and grow themselves and their organisations.
Executive coaches/mentors often become the third level of challenge and guidance for the Executive, taking a view and position that is different to that of other Executives and/or the Board/Business Owners. They can discuss issues and query strategies in a way which is non-threatening to the individual and allow them the space to question possible decisions or pathways in a safe environment. Good Coaches/Mentors also understand the delicate situation they are in protecting both the individual and the Organisation end eavoring to achieve a positive outcome for both.
Lonely at the top was a phrase mentioned early in this piece and Coaches/Mentors play an important role not only in the leadership development of an individual but also in their mental health and well-being. Coaches/Mentors are integrating mindfulness and other well-being techniques into their programs to assist their clients in this area.
The simple fact that an organisation is prepared to invest in the development of an individual coupled with the understanding Mentors/Coaches bring in a holistic approach to sessions ensures that individuals perform at high levels not only at work but in their personal lives as well, leading to enduring success (and happiness)
IN SUMMARY
Coaching/Mentoring may not be for everyone, but it can potentially be a powerful tool to grow and enhance an individual’s performance, confidence and contribution not only to the organisation but to themselves as well.
Please contact VUCA Director Greg Connor greg.connor@vuca.com.au to discuss this article.