During the initial coach training at the Center for Coaching Certification, we talk about using our coaching in our everyday conversations. Graduates are provided a questionnaire as a guide to using coaching in tough conversations at work. 
A manager or supervisor using coaching skills will start with open, positive questions.
- How are things going here at work?
- What do you like about your work? – OR – What energizes you about your work?
- Where do you want to go with your job/career?
- What do you think it will take to get there?
- What resources do you have?
- What resources do you want?
- What do you do well?
(Add feedback on what they are doing well.)
- What do you want to do differently?
(Add to this as appropriate.)
This series of questions sets a positive tone and indicates a collaborative approach. It gives the employee the opportunity to identity both strengths and opportunities for development. It demonstrates support.
These questions are great during routine check-ins with people on your team. As an added benefit, this supports creating a coaching culture in the organization. A coaching approach with your team will increase employee engagement, enhance productivity, and help with talent retention.
In the next post we will explore tough conversations.
