Our Coaching Approach
Systemic coaching is based on the conviction that every situation, every issue, every challenge or problem has its “functional” dimension within a system. In other words: there is a “logical” reason why you feel how you feel about an interaction with someone or in a given situation. Each behavior and reaction can be seen as a resource that works more or less effectively in a certain context.
Starting with a clearly defined coaching goal, the structured process helps you to understand the different forces within this system and learn more about how you decode and perceive your environment. Once the system is “on the table” coaching will guide you to a more differentiated perspective on a given conflict, challenge, fear, etc. Thereby the coachee will develop alternative approaches to the situation and to her/himself. Coaching is not about finding the miracle quick-win solution but taking a step back and expanding your possibilities to act based on what you are (your character, your values, your convictions) and have (skills, experience, strengths, status, resources, …).
Our Coaching Principles
Coaching for us is
Confidential: It goes without saying, but very often we get asked by HR or managers, “… and, how is the coaching going with Ms Smith?”. It is important for trusting interaction that we help the coachee to define what he/she communicates to others – and not communicate for them.
Voluntary: We sometimes get the request, “Can you coach Mr. Jones?”. We certainly can … if the person is willing to buy in to the goal, the process and the person. It is important for us that the coachee agrees with the targeted outcome and feels comfortable with the coach as a person.
One on one: Coaching is not mentoring nor is it training. It’s not about bringing all stakeholders of a conflict around a table in order to facilitate the resolution process. It’s not about getting people together in a room in order to develop certain skills. It’s a very personal one on one interaction that goes far beyond what people generally discuss in public or with colleagues.
Limited time period: Since coaching aims at a specific goal, we are convinced that the process should not have an open end. We ensure that the coachee does not become “dependent” on the coach in order to fill the gap, but to enable the coachee to find her/his own solutions. Therefore the number of sessions is limited.
Continuous: Having a coaching session every 4 weeks is nice and will help you clear your mind. But in order to trigger real change, we see coaching as a continuous process that is a mix of face to face sessions, intersession homework and remote coaching.
Focused on your control zone: We help coachees to focus on what they can control and act upon instead of spending energy on actions intending to change others or the environment.
We offer coaching the the following areas: