“Group coaching is a sustained conversation among members of a small group which focuses on goal setting, conversation to deepen awareness around issues or to support action around key themes, goals, and issues.” - Jennifer J. Britton

Contents

1. Why group non-directive coaching?

The emphasis on individual accountability is a key difference between group coaching and other related disciplines such as training and facilitation. Group coaching provides a peer learning space for goal setting, conversation, dialogue, and reflection for small groups of leaders with similar roles.

2. How is group non-directive coaching different?

A key component of group coaching is that the agenda is set by the group and is supported by a non-directive coach to be goal-focused and action-oriented. Goal-focused and action-oriented means that group coaching is more than...

• a good conversation
• generating insights and new ideas
• acquiring new knowledge, skills, and abilities through a lesson plan
• an opportunity to connect and get strength and support from a group of smart and capable people who work in similar contexts and face similar challenges.

3. Group non-directive coaching program development

Before group coaching begins, each group member meets one-on-one with the coach to discuss the process and learning expectations. The group then comes together to set the norms for creating a safe, confidential, and productive space to work.

• Through a process of identifying a group vision, members identify goals and topics of shared interest.
• Group members may set a frame for the structure of the sessions and determine the logistics for getting together.
  • Individual one-on-one coaching sessions are 60 minutes.
  • Group sessions are 90 minutes and work best with a span of control of six to eight participants to provide space for everyone to participate fully and gain individual and shared benefits.
  • Each group session typically has a beginning, middle, and end.
• Beginning
  • Welcome, check- in, and grounding
  • Sharing of learning (often an application of something applied from last session)
  • Setting an intention for what group wants to achieve today