S2 Episode 08: How do you use the Role Question in STOKeRS? (Open Table)

Today Claire is talking with coaches Mark Chappell, Fiona Craig, Caroline Drummond and Catherine Kramer who have all been asking questions about how you answer 'I don't know' questions when you're rightsizing the work at the beginning of every coaching conversation. Especially around the role question - how shall we do this? So we said come to The Coaching Inn and let's talk! We all learned something!

If you have a question about an aspect of coaching where you’d like to dig deeper, let’s talk at The Coaching Inn. Email us through info@3dcoaching.com Thinking about this together out loud will enable other coaches to learn and make their own meaning.

Contact:

Mark Chappell

Fi Craig

Caroline Drummond

Catherine Kramer

Takeaways

• As a coach, it's important to ask the question 'How are we going to do this?' at the beginning of a coaching conversation to set the stage for exploration and partnership.
• It's okay for thinkers to say 'I don't know' in response to questions. It indicates that the work is in uncharted territory and allows for a more open and flexible conversation.
• The role of the coach is to create a safe space for the thinker to explore their thoughts and feelings without feeling pressured to have all the answers.
• Coaches should focus on what is of value to the coachee and be willing to let go of control and follow the thinker's agenda.
• The question 'How will you know we've moved this forward?' is a powerful tool for helping thinkers identify their desired outcomes and measure progress. Set clear expectations about coaching at the beginning of the coaching relationship to avoid mismatched expectations.
• Discuss and address cultural differences upfront when coaching across cultures.
• Avoid providing advice or tips unless specifically requested by the client.
• Regularly check in with clients to ensure the coaching process is on track and meeting their needs.

Keywords

coaching, 'I don't know' questions, right-sizing, role question, exploration, value, flexibility, coaching, expectations, coaching across cultures, clarity, checking in