Intro to three coaching tools
Coaching tools vary from the analytical to the abstract. Choice of tool is one thing, how it is deployed is another.
I got chatting about coaching tools with Vicky Crane, education leadership coach. We discussed the benefit of positioning tools along a continuum as a helpful way of selecting the right place to start for a particular coaching use case. Viewing a library of tools along a continuum can also enable a coaching process to bring in a wider range of tools, starting with something highly structured and then working outwards towards more abstract…or the other way around depending on coachee and context!
Here are three tools, from analytical to abstract to get started.
Clifton strengths assessment
This is an easier place to start for most as it is on the structured and analytical side of the spectrum. The assessment helps users identify where they land within 34 strength areas categorised across four domains: strategic thinking/ relationship building/ influencing/ executing.
The results are a platform for the user to work with, and will fit into their wider journey. For example, identifying strengths can be a springboard to exploring a career change. Equally, the results could highlight areas that require more focus to achieve career progression.
Blob tree
The blob tree is a middle ground between analytical and abstract. An image of a tree with various figures positioned at different points, it can be a remarkably useful prop to discuss one’s own position within an organisation, or interrogate team dynamics. The range of relationships presented in different contexts on the tree can be very helpful in articulating the complex human goings on within a workplace. It has many uses cases, including on an individual level, e.g. as a starting point for personal development to understand where someone situates themselves and where they want to get to.
Mediating objects
Perhaps the most abstract of the three tools discussed here, mediating objects rely on touch and vision to ignite a thoughtstream in a world where most people are more comfortable with verbal communication. Therefore objects can encourage the user to step back from their narrative and their internal dialogue and see things differently. They are generally good for breakthrough moments and help change tack when feeling ‘stuck’. Objects are also be useful in creative processes.