Coaching leaders requires adaptability, especially when they resist trying new problem-solving approaches or directing their teams differently. When faced with a leader's reluctance to step out of their comfort zone, I often employ reverse role-playing exercises. This involves the client taking on the roles of their team members, boss, and colleagues, while I assume their role. By immersing themselves in these different perspectives, they are compelled to adopt a new conversational style, fostering fresh insights. Following the exercises, I facilitate a reflection session where the client shares newfound insights and strategizes on how to apply them in future conversations.
I once had a client who was extremely deep into the details and analysis of everything thing we did. I was fortunate as I knew this in advance about her because of a great behavioral assessment I use when first starting working with a client. It pays to know who you're dealing with (behaviorally) up front! However, this went beyond anything even reflected in the behavioral survey. We all know the Golden Rule, right? Treat others the way we'd want to be treated? Well, that is out and today Platinum Rule now prevails, which is Treat others the way they need to be treated. So, with this in mind, I was certain to provide copious amounts of reference materials and support documentation for each area we worked on. In turn, the client would digest all my information and all the information that she collected. This was difficult for me as I'm much more of a "fly by the seat of my pants" type. However, researching and providing this data proved to me that I can get DEEP in the weeds if necessary and I did learn from it. I also saw first hand that with much data comes "analysis paralysis". It was difficult to move forward at times regardless of how much time I provided to digest the info. I had to push decision making, even when the client was not quite ready for fear decisions would never be made. Ultimately it was a successful engagement and I learned that you can balance the client's learning style by adapting your own style and meeting somewhere in the middle.
As a CEO of Startup House, I once had a client who was a visual learner and struggled to grasp complex technical concepts through traditional coaching methods. To better suit their learning preferences, I adapted my coaching style by incorporating more visual aids, diagrams, and interactive exercises into our sessions. This approach not only helped the client better understand the material but also made the coaching process more engaging and enjoyable for both of us. It's important to be flexible and tailor your coaching style to meet the unique needs of each client, ultimately leading to more successful outcomes.
Sure, I once coached a client who retained information best through auditory methods. Despite my penchant for detailed presentations, I quickly adapted to meet the client's preference. I started incorporating podcasts and recording our sessions so they could listen back. I even found myself singing business concepts to make them stick! This shift from my usual coaching style was challenging but reinforced the importance of being flexible and innovative in the modern tech world.