Elevating Leadership Through Spontaneous Coaching Moments



When leaders engage in informal conversations, such as a two-minute suggestion after a meeting, offering guidance during a commute, or sending an online message, these small acts are forms of coaching. Some of the most effective coaching occurs in those small, unexpected moments, which occur without any preparation.

Many leaders think that coaching (training) in the workplace is a large, complex, and time-consuming process, but in reality, coaching can occur in small, simple everyday conversations. It is not a rigid framework with set rules. When leaders engage in informal conversations, such as a two-minute suggestion after a meeting, offering guidance during a commute, or sending an online message, these small acts are forms of coaching. Such spontaneous and genuine interactions build team members' confidence, provide clarity about their work, and improve their efficiency.

Take advantage of unexpected moments : - Some of the most effective coaching occurs in those small, unexpected moments, which occur without any preparation.  It's not just about giving advice, but about asking questions that inspire the other person to think for themselves and take responsibility. This is called "popcorn coaching" because these opportunities happen suddenly after a meeting or in a WhatsApp chat and last only a few minutes. The leader's job is to recognize these moments, ask questions, and help people think and move forward.

Share Experiences : - When new talent observes leaders in action, they understand their approach, thinking, and behavior. If a leader tells them something specific to pay attention to before a meeting and then spends a few minutes talking to them about what they noticed or what they could do differently, the ordinary experience turns into a learning experience. This process gives them confidence, develops skills, and prepares them for future responsibilities.

Strive to Increase Engagement : - Leaders coach not only by providing advice but also by connecting people with the right opportunities and experts.  Such leaders direct their teams to those who can best teach a particular skill. For example, when a senior leader introduces a talented team member to an influential mentor within the company, the mentor recognizes their potential and gives them opportunities to participate in larger tasks. This can lead to a promotion within a few years.

Gemba Coaching is Effective : - Gemba means the real place where work actually happens. The purpose of Gemba Coaching is to understand people's thinking and help them make better decisions while they are at work. Under Gemba Coaching, leaders ask why they took a particular step. The goal of this training is to become aware and mindful of even the smallest aspects of their decisions.

Read more : - The Merchant of Evil 

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