The GROW coaching model is a tried-and-true coaching model for structuring coaching sessions.
And … what else ? :-)
The GROW coaching model’s strength is that it leads to a clearly defined end result after four stages. The coachee takes an active role in identifying problems and coming up with solutions. This means that whatever comes out of the coaching session has a greater chance of sticking.
The GROW coaching model stands for learning through experience: reflection, insight, decision-making, and action.
The success of a coaching trajectory using the GROW coaching model is also dependent on the client’s time and energy invested in the process.
OK… but concretely how to proceed as a Coach ? How to use it ?
Working with the GROW coaching model has the advantage of not requiring you to be an expert in your client’s specific situation in order to coach him. (Good news :-) right ?)
This model provides a framework with general questions to elicit goals, obstacles, options, and more without ever needing to offer advice or force any particular direction.
GROW’s steps:
There are four steps in total.
GROW stands for Goal — Reality — Options — Will.
In a figurative sense, the GROW coaching model is what you need to plan a journey.
You begin with a map, which shows where you are going (Goal) and where you are coming from (Reality). It then diagrams the various routes and options. Finally, it assists you in selecting the best option for you while taking into account the obstacles along the way.
You then map out the process and ensure that your motivation for the trip is at its peak.
GROW model can be used in both individual and group coaching, below some suggestions for each scenario:
With an individual:
Goals — What do you want?
The individual decides what they want to accomplish during the session and the coach assists him/her in achieving their objectives.
Reality — What is happening now?
The individual discusses their current situation with a coach ( issues, constraints, and challenges).
The coach can ask probing /powerful questions to gain a better understanding of the individual’s situation.
Options — What could you do?
The individual will brainstorm and explore options to resolve their issue based on the goal and reality.
In this case, a mentor can offer advice, and coaches can ask probing questions to encourage critical thinking.
Will — What will you do? (Last step)
The individual collaborates with the coach/mentor to plan the steps they will take to achieve their objectives.
Advice: Coaches should be good timekeepers, as these sessions are usually timed.
With a group:
Goals — What do you want?
Every participant will have their own airtime*. ([*] a 60–90-minute session devoted to one person’s objectives)
Advice: The participant with the dedicated airtime comes prepared with a goal in mind for the session.
Reality — What is happening now?
The participant with dedicated airtime informs the rest of the group about their current situation as it relates to their issue (issues, constraints, challenges).
Other participants can look for more information by asking probing questions.
Options — What could you do?
The participant with the airtime investigates their issue in various ways through open-ended questions from the group.
Will — What will you do?
The participant who received the airtime discusses concrete steps they will take to achieve their objectives.
And below I will give you some example of questions at each step in the GROW model:
Goals:
What do you hope to gain from this session?
What makes this so important to you?
Is it possible given the time constraints?
Reality:
What is going on with you right now?
What steps have you taken so far?
What are the roadblocks in your path?
Options:
What else could you possibly do?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of this option?
What are your thoughts on each option?
Will:
Which option will you choose?
When and how will you take action to achieve your goal?
How realistic are you about these actions?
You can practice the GROW model at:
Mentoring sessions
Coaching sessions
Performance reviews
Difficult conversations
Peer coaching circles
Peer mentoring circles
Last advice: It’s not as simple as you might think; hard work and practicing will be the Holy Grail ….
