I have some of the worst managers in the world who would yell and scream and make me feel small.
In fact, I learned from both types of managers.
I learned what to do…I learned what NOT to do.
I wouldn't say that any manager (certainly not me) is always on point but truly, there is one tactic that I have found to be critical to team member success.
The best managers; Get permission to coach-This concept was shared by the one and only Scott Herman (former COO of CBS Radio).
I start every day asking myself what I can do better and different.
Good managers share this spirit and ask their teams to join them.
Asking permission means just that: asking permission to share a skill, a tool, an idea, a hunch, or anything that comes from you.
Start by asking questions-
Good questions communicate your hope to understand and create a real opportunity to build trust and a deeper connection.
Questions will help your team to feel heard and understood. People that believe they are being understood in the workplace will generally be more open to listening to what you have to say. This environment also opens the door for them to share where they would like to grow.
But here is the deal… you are not just asking any questions.
The goal will be to use what you’ve learned with these questions to set up the next phase of the conversation and permission to share your expertise…Permission to Coach.
It would be helpful if we set up a time to work on____.
Is there anything else you would learn more about to help you grow within the organization?
What can “we” do better or different”?
Let’s start with a shared understanding that not everyone wants to be coached; it's better to learn that before you hire them as part of your team.
If you have read my previous blog post about mentors, you know I value them. Ask your potential hire about their mentors, teachers, and coaches from their teenage years. “What made them the very best coach for you”? “How did they support you in your learning and growing”?
RED ALERT--
Beware of those who try and tell you about their sweet second-grade teacher!
· You will not be coached like a second-grader.
· This is a real job where you are raising money for an import mission.
Do you have more questions on how to get permission from your staff to coach?
Want to learn how Team Kat & Mouse Nonprofit Consultants can help gown your team?
Through Sales Training for Nonprofits, Hiring Nonprofit Professionals, Nonprofit Donor recruitment, Nonprofit Board Training, Nonprofit, Courses for nonprofit organizations.
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