How to Develop Good Managing Skills

How to develop good managing skills
Harvard Business School Press , December 12, 2007
Good managers use coaching skills as part of their repertoire. The focus is on cooperation and facilitation of the other person's development. Coaching involves creating a comfortable environment where action plans can be developed together.
To become the most effective coach possible, work on mastering the following skills:
    • Listening actively
    • Asking the right questions
    • Advocating your opinions
    • Giving feedback as a coach
    • Receiving feedback as a coach
    • Building agreement
"I never could figure out why people didn't seem to follow my advice much. When I started to learn about the true art of coaching, it became painfully clear that my brilliance was failing on deaf ears because I hadn't done a bit of inquiry to learn what they were thinking, what they'd already tried, what their biggest priority was. Inquiry has made all the difference. It turns out most people want less advice but more opportunity to explore their own thinking with a caring coach who is paying attention." -- PattyMcManus, consultant, Interaction Associates
Tip: Those who coach regularly, coach better. Find opportunities to develop your coaching skills
Listen actively
As a coach you need to be tuned into the other person's feelings and motivations. You do this through active listening. Active listening encourages communication and puts other people at ease. Active listening also clarifies what's been said to avoid misunderstanding. As an active listener, give the coachee your full attention by following guidelines:
    • Maintain eye contact with the coachee.
    • Smile to put the other person at ease.
    • Avoid anything that will distract your attention. For example, don't answer the telephone. Only take notes if necessary.
    • Be sensitive to body language such as posture and arm position. Is the person tense or relaxed?
    • Listen first and evaluate...