| Coaching by psychologists is especially effective when it incorporates the insight that psychologists develope during their doctorate education and subsequent clinical and consulting practice. For coaching to be of real value to an executive, the coach must be able to relate to the executive and understand problems in the context of the business enviornment. Many psychologists are exceptional in understanding the dynamics of individual behavior and interpersonal relationships. However, unless the coach understands the business world of the executive and can relate to the very complex management system in which the executive must operate, realistic advice cannot be formulated. Executives realize that good advice is easy to give; it's implementation that is difficult. Senior managers have experience that few coaches possess and cannot always articulate subtle issues that make decision making difficult. Consequently, the coach's most important task is to listen! The coach is a facilitator and confidential sounding board for the executive, but the executive must implement the actions that the coach helps the executive decide upon. |
