3 Coaching Techniques & The Code of Ethics
Practical ideas for incorporating ethical principles into a coaching session.
Gone past my bedtime, but it’s evening in New York. Sitting up in bed with an iPad, headphones and making notes but not getting ink on the duvet. For anyone else on the zoom call, I saved you by having no video link.
The discussion was how to create a plan to address diversity, inclusion belonging and justice within the International Coaching Federation (ICF), and more broadly across the coaching profession.
Whilst some of the focus was on language, employing the organisation’s existing structure, and defining the scope of the project, it was in a breakout room I found the lessons I could apply as an individual. In a smaller group, off to the side, I figured out a little more, and identified three takeaways I could apply.
ICF defines coaching as partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them toICF defines teaching as partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential. The process of coaching often unlocks previously untapped sources of imagination, productivity and leadership.
- Presence
The key word for me from this definition is partnering. Beginning with curiosity and being present (not off in my head listening to a story). Maintaining an awareness of both similarities and differences in cultural, relational, psychological or contextual issues. This is in line with the Code of Ethics.
2. Bird’s-eye View
Coaches use bird’s-eye view as a metaphor to look at yourself or a situation from a distance. A way to imagine the scene from a less involved perspective, and to be aware of other factors. Using this technique to notice bias in the partnership and the creative process. Not only looking inward at myself, but also from this more encompassing point of view.
3. Limiting Beliefs
The term “limiting beliefs” describes thoughts we have which prevent us from doing what we may be able to do. This is where limits from past stories, those around me, where I grew up, how I was treated, what I now hope to do, what I believe someone like me can do, all come into play. How I try to fit in, how I stand out. What do we bring to the partnership in terms of our limiting beliefs?
When inviting these concepts together I find it helpful to think of this bias as perfume.
immersed in your own thoughts, a little atmosphere of home and self that surrounds you like mosquitoes, armor, perfume, or blinders, a second layer of self.
Rebecca Solnit
I may have put it on in the morning.
Half-awake, grabbed from the knicker drawer.
Before the other layers.
Half-way through the day I’ve forgotten I’m wearing it.
I don’t smell it anymore.
But it’s still there.
If you pass me by, or stop and talk
You notice it; possibly subconsciously.
Our unspoken interaction.
Maria Sokolowska is a photographer, coach and writer. She playfully explores imagery to challenge perceptions and perspectives. She uses metaphors to help understand some of the ordinary and complex ideas we have about ourselves so that we can feel understood.
Maria is a qualified ACC coach with the International Coaching Federation. The ICF defines coaching as partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximise their personal and professional potential.
Maria works with creative professionals, coaches, post-graduates, and volunteers with the Uprising UK Charity, which inspires young people from under-represented backgrounds to move into leadership roles.
You can connect with her on LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram or by following her newsletter on Substack.
