Adapted from Landsberg, “The Tao of Coaching”
This model of coaching, devised by Sir John Whitmore of performance Consultants and popularised by former McKinsey consultant Max Landsberg in his book
The Tao of Coaching, is one of the most common coaching approaches and is widely used by many great coaches. The GROW approach enables a coach to ensure that clients remain focused and that momentum is maintained both within and between sessions.
The GROW framework provides a simple four-step structure for a coaching session. During the first step of a session
(Goal), coach and client agree on specific outcomes and objectives for the person. During the second step,
(Reality), the coach helps the client explore the reality of their situation. In this stage the coach might invite self-assessment, ask specific and challenging questions or offer feedback. In the third step
(Options), the coach helps the client generate and choose between options for action that have the potential to move them closer to their goal. In the final stage,
(Wrap-up), the coach helps the client commit to action, define an accountability framework and a plan of action for themselves and identify how to overcome possible obstacles.
As in all good coaching, coaches using the GROW approach:
- Ask more than they tell
- Elicit useful ideas from the client to help them move forward
- Do not try to prove they are smart or outdo the client
- Encourage the client to think creatively – not just systematically, particularly in the Options and Wrap-up steps
- Illustrate and check understanding throughout by using specific examples – from the coachee’s and their own experiences
The GROW Model
1. GOAL-
|
 |
2. REALITY-
|
 |
|
|
4. WRAP-UP-
|
 |
3. OPTIONS-
|
