On Product Development and More...

I recently came across an article in Information Management magazine, entitled "Coaching for Professional Development".

It describes a management philosophy whereby, "Managers should encourage, foster and support employee's continual development as a way of helping them master changing work and keeping morale high". The ultimate goal is to keep employees motivated and productive.



The article cites a book, "Effective Coaching", by Michael J. Cook which describes the difference in approach between a Boss and a Coach.

The author then goes on to describe the key functions that the Coach carries out including:

• Develop, support and encourage
  
• Assess strengths and weaknesses
  
• Foster productive working relationships
  
• Provide guidance and counseling
  
• Encourage team members
  
• Convey appreciation
  
• Identify and diagnose performance problems
  
• Observe and analyze behavior problems
  
• Provide feedback
  
• Help employees prepare for new responsibilities
  
• Improve retention
  
• Improve performance and morale

This concept - of "coaching" over "bossing" - really resonates with me. I was fortunate to have first learned of this philosophy early in my career, by direct example, while working at Hewlett-Packard.

I have written in the past about the importance of teamwork in today's workplace (see: Value of Teamwork - A tale of 3 Teams). I am convinced that teams that produce the best results are comprised of people who work together with eyes glued on the end goal. Where teams are empowered to be successful. Where teammates are empowered to help one another achieve that success.

All of which requires exceptional Coaching.