Coach or mentor? Ask or advise?

The #1 hot topic for many coaches is “should I give advice, or hold back?” Although we haven’t seen full blown fist fights – after all we are coaches – we have seen plenty of heated discussions about it. We have a strong view at LYC – advice is off the table save for emergencies.

Can anyone be a coach?

A question that I am often asked is “Have I got what it takes to be a good coach?” It’s an understandable question. We are in a world of algorithms, of early labelling of children in school groups. And there is still the belief that we have to be a “natural” to excel in any field.  Apart from people who may […]

The power of pausing in coaching

When we ask new coaches to identify key coaching skills, it is rare that pausing gets a mention. And yet, the power of silence and provide reflection time can make a huge difference.   Pausing is common in our view, along with questions, listening, and structuring sessions one of the four most important coaching skills. Let’s explore how to […]