By Dr Stan Steindl,  BA PGDipPsych MClinPsych PhD(Clin) MAPS
People in business often refer to work difficulties:

• "How can I get through to my staff?"
• "What should I do when staff don't get along?"
• "Are the ideas I'm having worth pursuing?"
• "How do I plan ahead for my business?"

It is difficult being in business, whether you operate a corner store or are a manager in a large corporation. It is very useful when you can receive feedback and guidance from an objective, supportive person.

For centuries coaches have developed and enhanced athlete's performances. In more recent years the principles of coaching, and sports psychology, have begun to be adopted by the business world.

The purpose of business coaching

• To develop and encourage your personal best,
• To keep you forward-focused and always aware of new opportunities for growth and development,
• To assist you to work through any obstacles, and
• To change and overcome self-sabotaging or self-limiting beliefs.

Business coaching is a process of self-directed learning and real life application of what is learned. While you are seen as a vital resource of knowledge, coaching also assists you to actively seek the further knowledge and skills you need. It helps you to examine and clarify your values, purpose and vision, and facilitates your achievement of them.

The personal benefits of coaching

• Clarifying what you want from life
• Setting more effective goals
• Having someone to support and encourage you
• Having a sounding board for your ideas and plans

The business benefits of coaching

• Improving interpersonal and communication skills
• Learning effective time management
• Balancing work and personal life issues
• Developing staff ability to deal with conflict
• Identifying gaps and obstacles to efficiency
• Thinking strategically and creating business plans
• Increasing productivity
• Increasing market share
• Developing customer service

Psychology Consultants can help people and businesses enhance their performance through coaching. Call us to find out more about how coaching can assist you, your staff, or your patients.