January 22nd Coaching Tip: Be Seen.
As I was watching a leader closely today, as her team and workers were returning after a three-day weekend, I noticed how she intentionally walked thru the office area and said hello, stopped and truly talked to her colleagues. Further impressive was that they actually stood up and talked to her, shared what they did during their long weekend; smiles and laughs were present. Whether you’re a leader or a colleague, ask people about themselves and their lives. They appreciate being “seen” and sharing their story, especially to authentic leaders who truly listen and then remember the details. As I watched the leader step away, a couple people said, “thank you for talking to us…it shows us that you care.” Everyone wants to be seen.
January 23rd Coaching Tip: Be Heard.
Received an urgent Skype message today, i.e. “we need to get some time with you today to discuss an important situation.” This team is one who came to me 6 months ago and really shared their WHY and WHAT they want to accomplish. Thus, when they needed time today, we squeezed it in from 4-430pm on a Zoom. Indeed, it was important; they want to promote one of their colleagues and they wanted to practice running-through the new role and gain clarity for her (and them). After 25 minutes of listening to them and asking questions, they had the role clarified, were smiling, and a bit relieved as we wrapped up the call. If someone needs time with you, consider it a gift. They need someone to be “present”, and the best gift that you can give them is your “presence.” Let me them be heard, to help increase their confidence.
January 24th Coaching Tip: Be Efficient.
As a week winds down, it’s a common tendency to have the mindset of “let’s push it to early next week.” In my coaching work, I actually find that I can get a lot done before 10am on Friday mornings and also between 2-5pm. For example, I was able to squeeze in three, quick, efficient coaching sessions today. In a matter of 15-33 minutes, I was able to help all three situations today, instead of pushing them into the following week.
Everyone is busy. Who has ever approached you in the last few years and said, “hey…I just don’t have enough to do”? Like, let’s get real, no one. In being efficient today, I found that telling all three of them, “yes, I had a few minutes”, we immediately became efficient with our time. They truly felt both being seen and heard, and realized I was ready to potentially help them thru their coaching situation. The greatest gift you can give to someone is your time, i.e. being present. And then when you can help them work thru a situation or two, and they can sleep better over the weekend, you have truly added value. Be efficient, and others will likely mirror your behavior, and be efficient, too.