Effective Coaching

After reading the book Effective Coaching, by Marshall J. Cook, I now have some helpful insights about the role of coaching. I initially wanted to see how closely the role of coach and mentor was, and decided to see if this could help make that distinction. As I soon discovered the many hats that coaches wear, I began to see that all the "hats" started to look very similar. Coaching and mentoring are similarly focused disciplines.Coaching is not about control; it is empowerment, and leading by example. The role of coach is very dynamic. Many good intentions drive a coach to reach the learner, and depending on what situations are presented, the coach must be prepared and skilled to handle it. This book illustrates effective coaching techniques through the use of various scenarios. The chapters are organized into sub groups of the different roles a coach can be. "As a coach, you must be problem solver, trainer, teacher, mentor and corrector." Some of the skills covered are good questioning, being a good listener, problem solving, addressing change, overcoming obstacles, and valuable communication strategies. Plus bonus principles for good coaching and good living. All chapters have smart management tips that incorporate these skills to help you avoid potential real-life roadblocks and to put you into the Coach's and learner's perspectives.Throughout the book, the margins have helpful keys to the terms and the author has flavored each chapter with cases that relate to the chapter's theme. I enjoyed the voice the author used to express himself in each chapter. You find yourself quickly acknowledging the main points that are introduced. Each chapter concludes with a coach's checklist where all the pertinent points are restated. This is a book that I have underlined and highlighted for future reference.