A Coaching Model Created by Kiran Ramnane
(Executive Coach, CANADA)
Growth Positioning System
Much like the known acronym for a GPS, this coaching model assumes that the coach helps to facilitate the coaching journey, however the client is always in the driver’s seat and decides where they want to go.
The Coach is there to help them GO and GROW !!
The Model
I often liken myself to a GPS to my clients. My role in their life is to get them to where they want to go, guiding them the along the road while they are in the driver’s seat.
This model works on the premise that the coach helps the client understand the reason why they are in a given situation and helps them build a foundation for an action plan through that understanding.
- When the individual is ready to act, they need support and it is the role of the coach, much like a GPS to guide the driver through the journey they wish to take.
- A sophisticated GPS can warn the driver of potential pit falls and obstacles on the way, much like the coach can make the client aware of pit falls or self-sabotaging behaviours.
- While it seems like a GPS directs the driver or client where they should go in reality it only identifies possible routes, the choice is still completely in the driver’s or client’s hand.
The GPS Coaching Model: A 5-Step Process
How do I do this:
I first listen to what my client wishes as an outcome, much like the driver tells the GPS where they want to go. Clarifying their goals and needs.
I then observe and question much like a GPS that asks what route would the driver like to take – shortest, fastest, no tolls or highways. Adjusting the sessions to suit the client.
I then pause and absorb the information and let them absorb the information too, constantly checking for understanding . Give time for introspection and reflection.
I guide the client towards creating a solution for the best path helping them identify obstacles that might come in their way, guiding them through alternate routes and finally celebrating with them when they reach their destination. Committing to an Action Plan.
One last step which some clients need is guidance when the plan doesn’t go or get executed as “planned”. Readjusting goals and priorities is helpful at this stage.
Using a GPS can be fun, so also this coaching model aims to be a fun filled energising process
- They are useful if you get lost and you have a map that gives UTM or latitudinal /longitudinal coordinates – similarly the coach helps you find your self.
- You can answer the question "Are we there yet?" - “AHA”.
- You can find where you left your car umm or maybe left your self.
- Let's you tell the AAA where to send the tow truck – is your support back up.
- You can set waypoints and see directions to get there – need I say more.
- You can record the exact path you took to get somewhere and play it back later for someone else to see.
- You can use it as a compass (if you're moving) – create an action plan
- You can use it to estimate arrival times.
- Did I mention they are fun?.
- You can calibrate your speedometer- you decide how fast or slow you want to go.
- It can be a great navigation calculator. For example it will tell you how far apart two places are if you know their locations – where you are and where you want to be.
- They can be readjusted based on road and weather conditions – is there fog or rain – the plan can be modified or readjusted based on changing circumstances.