S4 Episode 36: Open Table - The Power of Noticing in Coaching

"Noticing is the most important and least formed skill in coaches."

At this week’s Open Table, Claire Pedrick MCC is talking with

• Victoria Pile
• Nathan Whitbread
• Christine Cadet
• Jo Evison
• Alun Bedding
• Ken Shih

We explore the theme of noticing in coaching and the importance of observing what is happening in the thinker. What are the challenges of noticing and the transformative impact it can have on coaching sessions? We talk about how it contributes to the flow of the conversation, the power of silence, the art of interrupting, and the impact of asking shorter and more focused questions. The key takeaway is to create space for the thinker to think and to stay present in the moment. By noticing and offering, rather than diagnosing, coaches can keep the conversation in the realm of generative exploration.

• Takeaways

• Noticing is a crucial skill in coaching and requires observing what is happening in the thinker.
• The role of movement and physicality in coaching can create a dynamic and power-free environment.
• Silence and reflection are important tools in noticing and allowing the thinker's thoughts to flow.
• Focusing on the thinker's perspective and drenching oneself in the other person's experience enhances the coaching process. Create space for the thinker to think
• Stay present in the moment
• Notice and offer, rather than diagnose
• Interrupt with a slight steer back to the topic
• Ask shorter and more focused questions
• Focus on the impact and landing of the question
• Avoid interrupting the thinker's flow
• Pay attention to the quality of the thinker's processing

Keywords

noticing, coaching, observer, thinker, dialogue, power, movement, physicality, silence, reflection, perspective, coaching, noticing, flow, silence, interrupting, questions, generative exploration

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Coming Up:

Next: Being Human in Business with Philippa White

Soon: Open Table: Coaching, Distress and Mental Health