How fast the year seems to have flown! For many of our readers the end of the year is often a time of more formal performance review for their team members and employees. Of course performance should be reviewed on an ongoing basis and feedback provided whilst still topical, but formally many organizations use the calendar year as a checkpoint and to close out performance reviews.
We suggest the review also be used to plan ahead for key expectations for the next year and set up a formal coaching agreement or process with staff members needing guidance and development. The performance review should highlight strengths that can be built on and key areas for improvement. A good leader or keen team members should plan to get coaching in development areas either from their leaders (often the manager/reviewer), colleagues or other staff with strong expertise in a subject.
Using an outside or external coach to provide guidance is often essential in growing one's business, leadership and management skills and is an important personal growth tool for use by aspirant leaders. Those who are finding themselves under pressure of business delivery and conflicting priorities and challenges at the technical, business or people interfaces will also benefit from using an external coach. External coaches complement internal development and can bring a fresh perspective on issues as well as act as a sounding board for new ideas. It especially allows the coached person space in a confidential environment to express ideas, test solutions and have a conversation about concerns, weaknesses or areas of new skills without feeling threatened or exposed to mistakes or misinterpretation.
Making use of an external coach can boost confidence and is a great way to grow management and leadership ability. Make a point of exploring formal and informal coaching with your boss or subordinate as part of your performance planning process for 2011.
Till next week
Key take-outs:
- Coaching can fast track staff development
- Use the performance review process to reflect on the past but plan for the coming year
- Outside coaches can bring a new perspective to personal growth opportunities and provides as safe environment in which to explore these