Why ED Coaching?

Many nonprofit executive directors hire a coach to strengthen her/his leadership skills and improve their organization’s effectiveness.

A 2006 CompassPoint study, Daring to Lead, found that 25 per cent of nonprofit leaders used a coach and that 27 per cent of grant-makers supported leadership development and provided grants for coaching.

In a 2010 foundation-funded study, two-thirds of EDs surveyed said coaching was "very effective" compared to management/leadership training, workshops, classes or seminars. The study showed that two-thirds of surveyed EDs, who chose coaching, did so “to develop leadership skills/confidence."

When to use coaching

Coaching may be useful when the ED wants to:

• Excel in a new role and strengthen competency. Coaching can help the ED to set priorities and/or develop key leadership skills
• Achieve better work-life balance. Coaching can help the ED to manage her/his stress and set boundaries
• Become a better supervisor and team leader. Coaching can help in improving leadership skills and model ED coaching skills
• Overcome sense of isolation in leadership role. Coach is a confidential partner to discuss concerns about staff, board, stakeholders and funders
• Consider career path. Coach can help ED to define career goals and ways to shape the current position to open more opportunities for creative and visionary work
• Accelerate successful organizational effectiveness. Coach can help ED to focus on strategic decision-making, evaluate options and align the staff and board with the mission

How can I know if I’m ready for coaching?

Ask yourself if you are ready to make available the time necessary, usually an hour or two per week for at least several months (this includes the coaching time and “homework).

A foundation-funded evaluation found that in order for coaching to be effective it was necessary the ED to have some of the following attributes: open, curious, a learning orientation, an appetite for change, willingness to be introspective, and interest in strategic thinking. Of these attributes the most important was found to be motivation for change.

Is the organization ready for you to be coached?

Since you will be spending time and money on coaching will you have the support of the board and staff leaders? Some clients use ED coaching as an adjunct to a larger strategic planning process or board development effort.

Alternatively, for EDs who conclude there isn’t the organizational support for coaching she/he may want to consider specific skill building workshops and training events.

How to Choose a Coach

Good chemistry is key. In a Harvard Business Review survey of leading coaches the consensus was that rapport is essential for a successful coaching experience. That is why K&A offers a free initial coaching session to see if there is the right chemistry before going ahead.

A recent grant maker-funded study found that nonprofit EDs benefited most from coaches who had experience as EDs and/or board members, thus providing a greater understanding of the challenges of nonprofit leadership.

On request, K&A will provide references from EDs who have received coaching services from K&A.

How coaching sessions are conducted

In the beginning coaching sessions are weekly, or every other week. After the right rhythm is established (after three or four sessions), coaching face-to-face sessions are usually every two to three weeks. The location of the sessions is at the discretion of the ED. Some clients prefer neutral sites, others at their offices, and others even choose long walks.

In between sessions the coach and ED stay in touch by regularly scheduled short weekly phone contacts, and/or, on an as-needed basis.

We will periodically revisit our coaching contract at milestones, e.g., quarterly to renew the contract. We may adjust strategies and plans to ensure the coaching is still meeting your needs and reconfirm your commitment

Of course, the coach is bound to absolute confidentiality. If there is an institutional funder for the coaching engagement the coach, ED client and funder will agree on how much information is to be shared. For example, it may be appropriate for the funder to receive information on the coaching goals set and a general statement of whether the ED is working toward those goals. How much is to be shared is the ED’s decision.

Cost

K&A rate for coaching is $125 per hour. Grant-makers value coaching as a catalyst for developing leaders and improving organizational effectiveness. It is often the case that a grant or scholarship pays part of the coaching fee.

We will be glad to discuss funding sources with you at an initial free session.