Want a brilliant framework to use within a coaching session? Use this three element dynamic shared with me by Andrew Neitlich, founder of the Center for Executive Coaching. When you’re working with a client who wants to be more effective, ask them how they are doing in balancing the three elements of Ego, Results & Relationships.
They’ll counter with, “How do you mean?”
Here’s an example from a recent conversation with a client. They were telling me about one of their reports who’s a subject matter expert. Given the opportunity to flex their intellect, they will take on a project and do most of the work. That gets them Results and strengthens their Ego. But where does that leave Relationships? Out in the cold.
My client actually characterized it as “Cheating the others out of a chance to develop their capabilities”.
In another scenario, the leader likes to see themselves as being very empathetic to their team members. Thus, when a big project with a tight timeline comes along, their ego says, “Don’t push them too hard. You’ll damage the relationship.” But then the Results suffer.
This is a great dynamic and with a fairly brief explanation, every leader will see the wisdom in balancing the three elements going forward. I hope it proves to be a useful tool for you.
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Want to learn more about growing as an executive coach? Read our article, “Positive momentum: a secret to achieving greater success in executive coaching.”
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