The ICF Core Coaching Competencies make an excellent structure for formatting our coaching sessions. There is also no better way to obtain a deeper understanding of the core competencies than to realize how they can be used throughout our life, business, and relationships as well.
For example, consider a discussion in a relationship where you entered into it knowing what you wanted to achieve, how you would know when you had been successful, and what you needed to look at in order to achieve what you wanted. This is very reminiscent of ICF Core Competency #3, Establishes and Maintains Agreements. Warning: I wouldn’t actually advise coaching a partner or friend. I know from experience that it doesn’t go well! Think of this more as a way to structure your thinking.
Another option is to think about the ability to remove all of our agenda from our speaking, similar to the guidance given in Core Competencies #4, Cultivates Trust & Safety and #5 Maintains Presence. This is an especially important skill in coaching, and I would assert, in life as well. Questions are much more readily received if there is no perceived (or real) agenda.
A final example is in evoking awareness. “The frames we have in our mind or our beliefs limit what we see as possible.” (The Art of Possibility. Benjamin Zander and Rosamund Stone Zander. 2002). It would be wonderful if we could see the frames that we have around our own and others’ beliefs (e.g., clients), develop a way to see them ourselves and ask powerful questions to support the other person to look there as well. This is an important skill in coaching and is often called examining context.
Keep an eye out for a course for JST graduates regarding a deeper dive into the core competencies. (CCEU’s in Core Competencies will be provided.) This will support you in seeing the competencies in a different way than you have before and support you in coaching your clients. As an added bonus, you will also get new ways to support building your business.
Wishing you the best in your coaching journey.