Recently I spoke with a business owner who returned from a snow-mobiling vacation with a large group of friends and colleagues. He commented that he didn’t need to go to the gym, because he got his best ab workout from all the laughter they shared over their several days together. That group dynamic takes FUN to the next level in our personal lives and is also exceptionally valuable for business.

I just returned from The Growth Coach annual conference, where periodically, I get to participate in person with my fellow coaches from around the globe and experience the power of the group. I love to experience the magic first-hand of the Group Coaching format that is one of the most impactful ways I serve my clients. Not only did my abs get a workout from all the “you-had-to-be-there” humor, but from the business perspective it was terrific too.

Three of my favorite benefits of the group coaching process:

Safe Space for Reality Check – There is nothing more reassuring, when looking at the good, the bad, and the ugly of the business or the life you’ve created, than to have another leader say, “me too”, or “I have been there and struggled with that too.” It is encouraging to know as business leaders that we are not alone, because sometimes within our companies, it can feel lonely. Even inside our companies, the group coaching process is beneficial for emerging leaders or executive teams to get real with what’s working and what’s not. A skilled coach creates the safe, confidential space and facilitates deep reflection to look at the reality of where the business is and how you, as the leader, can proceed with effective solutions.

Collaborative Learning – We learn well in groups by collaborating and sharing knowledge between team members. Whether honing skills on leadership, sales, or marketing, the insights are enhanced with examples and stories from our peers. We shifted a perspective on strategic selling, for example, during a group session at the conference with an activity using puzzles and a new thought about competitive games. The power of the group made the experience much more compelling and impactful than simply reading a book or listening to a lecture.

Accountability – Group Coaching provides a valuable level of accountability for each member. When declaring intentions or goals, each participant is much more likely to do what they say they will when they will be reporting back to their peers on their progress. The relationships built in group interactions also play a part in holding each other accountable. After spending a few days in person with my fellow coaches, we are all more likely to participate in upcoming video coaching calls with each other, to reach out in between sessions, and to hold each other accountable for our success.

Group Coaching is a very effective format that I offer my clients – as an internal program for employees or executives within a company, or as peer groups where a cadre of CEOs or leaders come together to master sales, leadership, and growth. The shared experiences, including some laughter, make it an enjoyable avenue for personal and professional growth. Find out more information about some of The Growth Coach group programs including Sales Mastery, Strategic Manager, and the Strategic Business Mindset Academy or reach out for more information kellet@thegrowthcoach.com.

by Kim Ellet, CPC, The Growth Coach of Metro Atlanta

Kim Ellet is a certified professional coach and owner of The Growth Coach of Metro Atlanta. She finds joy in helping successful leaders committed to continuous improvement, be more of who they are, dream bigger dreams, and accomplish more than they realized was possible.
www.TheGrowthCoach/Atlanta.com