One of the hardest things to determine as a coach is whether a shortfall in performance is due to mindset or skills/knowledge. The table below provides some questions you can ask yourself to determine whether there is an ability or motivation need – or both.
If a lack of motivation or attitude is limiting a coachee’s performance then you need to bring this into the open and identify its cause. This should always be resolved before attempting any development of a coachee’s ability. In other words, you need to discuss and resolve any opportunities to improve motivation during Step C, before moving onto Step D, where skill coaching takes place.
This approach ensures there is ‘ownership’ of the need to improve and a willingness to succeed. This also gives you an opportunity to work on or enhance knowledge, skills or ability through development activities.
AbilityA quantitative measure of knowledge, skills or ability to perform the role Questions you would ask yourself:
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MotivationA group of qualitative measures and opinions about a person’s approach to their role Questions you would ask yourself:
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If a lack of motivation or attitude is limiting a coachee’s performance then you need to bring this into the open and identify its cause. This should always be resolved before attempting any development of a coachee’s ability. In other words, you need to discuss and resolve any opportunities to improve motivation during Step C, before moving onto Step D, where skill coaching takes place.
This approach ensures there is ‘ownership’ of the need to improve and a willingness to succeed. This also gives you an opportunity to work on or enhance knowledge, skills or ability through development activities.
“Believe in yourself! Have faith in your abilities! Without a humble but reasonable confidence in your own powers you cannot be successful or happy.” NORMAN VINCENT PEALE
Author: Fullbrook, Heslop, Morden and Sellwood. Prosell Australia
