Communication may be fundamental to business, but expression is the essential key to coaching. All too often the business world endorses one-way coaching models that neglect the needs, drives and natural preferences of the individual being coached. Effective coaches know their people, adjust their approach and provide feedback in a way that benefits those they are coaching.
Miscommunication does more damage than zero communication, so it is important to understand and honor individual preferences when it comes to self expression. Dr. Linda Berens’ Interaction Styles model is a perfect lens for improving team dynamics because it describes clear patterns of interaction that are easy to identify. Here is a quick reference for the best way to connect with others:
In-Charge Interaction Style
Those with a preference for this style like to get results and take action. They want to be coached in a straightforward manner, so give them time and task details and focus on the expected results. They get stressed when they feel nothing is being accomplished. They have an urgent need to accomplish and believe it is worth the risk to go ahead and act or decide.
Chart-the-Course Interaction Style
Those with a preference for this style like to have a plan of action and to see movement and progress. They want to be coached without being rushed, so give them the opportunity to pause and ask questions. They feel stressed when they don’t know what is likely to happen or they don’t see progress. They have a pressing need to anticipate and believe it is worth the effort to think ahead to reach the goal.
Get-Things-Going Interaction Style
Those with a preference for this style like to move things along by involving others and being involved. The want to have the freedom to think out loud, exploring the options and possibilities. They get stressed when they don’t feel they are involved in what is going on. They believe it is worth the energy to involve others and get them to want to do something.
Behind-the-Scenes Interaction Style
Those with a preference for this style like to integrate and harmonize to get the needed result. They want to be coached by honoring their need for reflection, so allow for time to process and gather more information. They feel stressed when they are pressed too quickly or don’t have sufficient input. They believe it is worth the time to integrate and reconcile multiple contributions.
Self-expression is an important part of building rapport, so understanding what is behind the need to interact is the key to coaching for impact.
About the Author
Leslie-Anne Harants, Chief Culture Officer
3Rivers Federal Credit Union
lharants@trfcu.org
(260) 487-3374
3riversfcu.org
