The learning cycle model suggests that an employee in one of these quadrants would benefit from an executive coach (or mentor) on an almost weekly basis. However, biweekly meetings are usually more manageable. This allows more time to apply and test ideas from a previous session. Formal employee coaching is similar to counseling, but only in the sense that it normally takes place during a private meeting with the supervisor and employee.
This type of discussion about coaching can serve to identify a potential problem, or it can simply provide the supervisor with an opportunity to help their employee resolve work-related issues or achieve professional development goals. Formal training usually takes place on a weekly or monthly basis. The supervisor should analyze previous issues to see if they have been resolved, as well as analyze the employee's current work performance. This type of training allows the supervisor to identify problems before they get out of hand and to teach tips and techniques to better execute the tasks assigned to the employee.
As an expert in organizational coaching, I recommend that managers should schedule a weekly one-on-one meeting with each direct report. It's understandable if it needs to be rescheduled in a specific week or if it doesn't happen from time to time. However, in my experience, managers should try to hold one-on-one meetings at least three out of four weeks. It is important to make regular visits to prevent major problems from worsening, to allow for immediate and regular feedback and to promote open communication.
Every year, equipment must be out of the facility for at least one day, sometimes two days. I generally suggest holding this meeting in October or November (or, if your client has a different fiscal year, ask them to schedule it for early Q). During this retreat, the team will review the work done the previous year and re-establish their annual goals to move toward the three- to five-year goals that the organization is pursuing. Additionally, ask them to vaguely describe the objectives for each quarter of next year.
It often makes sense for this retreat to be professionally facilitated. This will ensure that all members of the team are heard and that everyone is on the same page when it comes to setting goals and objectives for the upcoming year. Organizational coaching is an invaluable tool for any business looking to maximize their success. By scheduling regular one-on-one meetings with each direct report on a weekly basis, managers can ensure that any potential problems are identified early on and that employees are given the opportunity to develop their skills and reach their professional goals. By taking advantage of professional facilitation during annual retreats, teams can review their progress from the previous year and set realistic goals for the upcoming year. This will help ensure that everyone is on the same page when it comes to achieving organizational success.
