_Principles Of Business Ethics (1)

Unethical Coaching Tactics: Undermining Confidence and Lack of Adaptability

Introduction

In the realm of business coaching, trust, support, and encouragement are essential for the growth and success of clients. Unfortunately, not all coaches adhere to these fundamental principles. In recent events, a distressing case has come to light where a client's confidence was shattered and their progress hindered by a coach who displayed two highly disappointing behaviours. This article will shed light on these tactics and emphasise the importance of ethical coaching practices that foster a positive environment for growth and development.

1. Undermining Confidence and Imposing Criticism

The first egregious tactic employed by the coach in question is the complete demolition of the client's confidence. Constructive criticism is an essential component of coaching, as it helps individuals identify areas of improvement and refine their strategies. However, there is a significant difference between constructive criticism and destructive criticism.

In this case, the coach not only criticised the client's business decisions but also imposed their own opinions, dictating what the client should and shouldn't do. This approach not only undermines the client's confidence but also stifles their creativity and independence. A good coach understands that each client has unique strengths, weaknesses, and perspectives, and their role is to empower and guide, not to impose their own agenda.

2. Inflexibility and Lack of Adaptability

Another concerning aspect of this coach's behavior is their inability to adapt when interrupted or faced with unexpected situations. The mark of an effective coach lies in their ability to be flexible, think on their feet, and navigate challenges with grace. However, the coach in question appears to be stuck, as if following a scripted response that cannot be deviated from.

This lack of adaptability hampers the coaching process and fails to address the client's immediate needs. Clients seek guidance from coaches to navigate various obstacles and uncertainties. A coach who cannot adjust their approach accordingly leaves the client feeling neglected and unsupported.

The Importance of Ethical Coaching Practices

Contrasting the aforementioned coaching tactics, an ethical coach prioritizes their client's well-being, fosters a supportive environment, and focuses on encouraging their growth. Here are some key aspects that differentiate an ethical coach from an unethical one:

1. Support and Encouragement: Ethical coaches understand the significance of support and encouragement in nurturing their client's confidence. They provide constructive feedback while ensuring their clients feel valued, empowered, and motivated.

2. Identification of Strengths: Rather than imposing their own ideas, ethical coaches help their clients identify and leverage their unique strengths. They recognise that the client is the expert in their own business and work collaboratively to build upon existing assets.

3. Flexibility and Adaptability: Ethical coaches possess the ability to adapt their coaching approach to suit the individual needs and circumstances of each client. They are comfortable thinking on their feet, adjusting their strategies as required, and finding creative solutions to challenges.

4. Emotional Well-being: An ethical coach recognises the importance of mental health and understands that bashing someone's confidence for personal gain is unethical. They prioritise the emotional well-being of their clients, ensuring a safe and supportive space for growth.

5. Humility and Integrity: An ethical coach does not measure their success solely in terms of monetary value or material possessions. They understand that true success lies in the positive impact they have on their clients' lives and businesses. They do not boast about their earnings or use them as a marketing tool to attract clients. Instead, they focus on building genuine connections, maintaining a high level of integrity, and delivering results that genuinely benefit their clients.

The case of a coach who undermines a client's confidence and lacks adaptability is a disheartening example of unethical coaching practices. It serves as a reminder of the importance of ethical coaching, which involves supporting, encouraging, and empowering clients rather than imposing personal agendas. As a client seeking coaching services, it is crucial to choose a coach who values your strengths, respects your autonomy, and is committed to your overall growth and success.

An ethical coach prioritises the growth and well-being of their clients above personal gain. They understand that success is a collaborative effort and that their role is to guide, support, and empower their clients on their unique journey towards achieving their goals. By cultivating an environment of trust, respect, and ethical conduct, these coaches create long-lasting relationships based on mutual growth and achievement.

Rest assured Business Glu are authentic and genuine.  Our purpose and mission  is to serve as a catalyst for transformation, empowering organisations to thrive, embrace change, and exceed their goals. Together, we will unlock the full potential of businesses and create a lasting legacy of success.

To contact and arrange a chat, email: TJ@Businessglu.co.uk

by TJ Duncan

Leading Through Adversity

During times of crisis it is the leaders responsibility to ensure their teams are led by example. 

For those businesses fortunate enough to survive the pandemic, some more luck, several are facing the repercussions now. 

First Covid, then the great resignation and the looming 2023 recession means business leaders are struggling where to turn next as thriving through the uncertain times isn't easy. 

We've been in recessions before, historically around every 9-10 years so nothing new.  Pandemics are new and we haven't fully recovered from that and also Brexit so businesses are feeling it and looking for a break.  As we aren't yet certain of the effect of the 2023 posing recession workplace reductions have already been happening since Q4 of last year which creates an uncertainty amongst staff around job security.  This in itself can unbalance company culture, everyone waiting to see if its them next.

It's times of crisis the team look to their leader for the route out of it all.  This is where the leader has to be accountable, set the tone and establish trust and respect.   

Here are some pointers to help lead through adversity

Transparency and effective communication

Keeping everyone in the loop builds trust and shows you care about their well being.  More communication is better than less, particularly in uncertain times.  Being transparent is perceived as scary and the reason lots of leaders back off from it, and share too much information which has the opposite effect.  There has to be a fine balance and those at the top have to determine which is the best information to be shared and whats not. 

Transparency elminiates misunderstanding and rumours, whilst you dont want to involve employees in all decisions, it's important they feel they avea voice and allowed to share their opinions and concerns.  Consider what they have feedback in the decision making process is the good option, feeding back the discussions that have taken into consideration their views.

Prioritising well being

Work related stress has increased dramatically in recent times.   As a leader it is important to consider and make an effort to reduce stress amongst employees. 

This can include flexible hours, encouraging breaks throughout the day and implementing policies to promote employee autonomy and self care. 

It's also important to create an open dialogue that employees feel comfortable speaking up and expressing feelings and concerns.  These sort of businesses have a better employee retention and a great culture. 

Encourage team members to take time off thats due to help with healthy mindset and prevent burnout. 

Company Core Values

Planning ahead is key in times of crisis but as said, not easy for the unknown.  You can review costs, you may plan to cut people, salaries, spending, but whatever it is it must be a decision that makes sense for the company. 

Going back to your core values is a good place to start.  After all this is what defines your company and (should) guide all the decision making.   They should be used to steer you in the right direction. 

Starting at hiring stage, everyone in the business should be aligned to its core values and understand what they mean to uphold them in the day to day work and relationships. 

Creating resilience in a team it is something that must be grown through careful planning, transparency and trust. 

It is a huge responsibility leading a team through adversity but by inspiring your team and following these principles you will come out strong. 

If you feel a little overwhelmed by the looming recession and want support and advice, get in touch; 

TJ@Businessglu.co.uk 

by TJ Duncan

How to get the most value from your relationship with an Improvement Specialist

So you're thinking about engaging with someone to help you in your business?

Here are a few things to consider to make sure you get the absolute maximum value and results whether it be a consultant, coach, mentor or improvement specialist:

1. Clarify your goals: Before engaging with who you have made the decision to work with, it's important to have a clear understanding of your goals and what you hope to achieve from the relationship. This will help you to identify the right area of expertise and who can provide the support you need. According to a survey by the International Coach Federation, 62% of clients reported setting goals and defining their coaching objectives as the most critical factor in achieving success, getting the best results.

2. Look for relevant experience: When choosing the right person to work with, it's essential to look for someone with relevant experience and expertise. Look for a track record of success in the areas where you need support. According to the same survey by the International Coach Federation, 72% of clients reported that the specialists expertise was a crucial factor in their decision to work with them.  

3. Be open and honest: To get the most out of the relationship, it's essential to be open and honest with your consultant, coach, improvement specialist. Share your thoughts, feelings, and concerns openly so that they can provide you with the support you need.  As your confidante they need complete transparency to allow them to understand the raw nuts and bolts of the machine. 

4. Take ownership of your development: While your specialist can provide guidance and support, it's ultimately up to you to take ownership of your development. Be willing to put in the effort and work required to achieve your goals. Taking action (or homework as I prefer to call it) outside of  sessions as a critical factor in achieving success.

5. Provide feedback: Finally, it's essential to provide feedback.  Let them know what's working and what's not so that they can adjust their approach if necessary. You only get out what you put in, ensure that you listen, learn and absorb the skills that can be transferred to you and you team.   Your team must be communicated to and kept in the loop of what's happening and the vision.....they are part of the relationship and for it to work everyone has to be onboard.

Business Glu love helping their clients implement and execute the strategies, it can lead to significant improvements in the business outcomes. By actively participating in the process and investing in your own development, customers can maximize the impact of our services and achieve great results.

We have a collaborative approach built on honesty and openness being the key to achieving great results together.

Now we all know what we're doing get in touch and let TJ and Business Glu support you on your road to success. 

Email: TJ@Businessglu.co.uk 

by TJ Duncan

Are you cut out to be a leader?

To be a leader of a business, there are several key skills and traits that are necessary. Here are some of the most important ones:

1. Vision and Strategic Thinking: A leader must have a clear vision of what the company should achieve in the long-term and be able to develop a strategy to achieve it.

2. Strong Communication Skills: A leader should be able to communicate clearly and effectively with their team, customers, and stakeholders.

3. Decision-making Ability: A leader must be able to make difficult decisions quickly and effectively, based on data and analysis.

4. Adaptability: A leader should be able to adapt to changing circumstances and be able to pivot the company's strategy when necessary.

5. Emotional Intelligence: A leader must be able to understand and manage their own emotions and those of others, as well as be able to build strong relationships with their team.

6. Integrity and Honesty: A leader should have strong ethics and be transparent in their decision-making and communication.

7. Results-oriented: A leader must be focused on achieving results and driving the company towards success.

8. Continuous Learning: A leader should be committed to continuous learning and personal development, and be willing to take on new challenges and opportunities.

Overall, being a successful leader requires a combination of these skills, as well as the ability to inspire and motivate others towards a common goal.

We aren't all born leaders but we can develop into exceptional ones with the right guidance.

Business Glu can help your development as a leader

Get in touch and we can have a chat about how we get you started on the right track 

TJ@Businessglu.co.uk

by TJ Duncan

ARGHHHH ....Working with an 'Outsider' isn't so scary

It isn't daunting, intimidating or anything you should be worried about

There is a stigma around engaging with a specialist from outside your business so I'm here to give you the confidence that it will be the best thing you can do for you and your business. 

I begin with a chat:

Please don't feel you have to be 'dressed for work in a suit'.  I wear smart casual clothes as I want my clients to feel at ease. 

Please don't feel you will be out of your depth.  I speak in plain speech, a non-technical language and my purpose is to make sure you understand everything we are talking about.

Please don't think I talk 'businessy'.  I speak as if we were sat in a cafe over a coffee putting the world to rights.......in fact that is where we are sometimes, I often feel it beneficial to take you away from the hub so that you are relaxed and not uptight.

Please don't feel you're on your own.  Recently a client said that it was brilliant having someone for them, like having a business partner. 

Please believe there are solutions to your challenges.  You may feel you've got as far as you can in the business or that you've hit a barrier .....you haven't.  With my experience, contacts and background there is so much more for your business out there.  You have been in your own industry little bubble, there is a whole new world of opportunities for you just waiting. 

My first port of call after our chat ...(if we like each other), is my Fact Finding Day.  This is where we deep dive into your business and identify 'what' to do.  

I have no hard sell, I hope you want me to stick around but absolutely no pressure for me to stay at that point.   It is up to you if you want to take away the information from the FFD and work through 'how' to do the things that need to be done without my help and support.  Or, we set a plan, sign an agreement and start setting out the steps to identify and  where you are now and exactly where you need to be, but more importantly educate and support 'how' you get there in the way you feel the most comfortable, with the biggest benefits to you and the business. 

No one can talk and tell me more about your business than you.  I love seeing the light in people's eyes when they tell me how and where they began.  I also see it when that light is flickering and you're tired.  That gives me a fuzzy feeling as I know we can get you back in love with your business. 

No one is more passionate than you, so don't think you have to continue muddling/struggling/wading your way through the challenges business throws at you. 

I want you to be comfortable with me, I speak calmly, relaxed and put a different perspective on things.  I don't speak techy...unless you want me to, I enjoy sharing those 'lottery winning nuggets'.

I listen to what you have to say about you and I am extremely interested.  I'm a bit of a nerd with how things work and ask the nuts and bolts of a business.  I feel your passion, I understand it, I've been in your shoes experiencing so much of what you are experiencing.  I've been up the mountain and back down again so I also feel your fear. 

You will regularly see me on a zoom call with a puppy asleep on my lap, or hay stuck in my hair.  What you get with me is the completely authentic, genuine deal.   I've worn the masks and pretended to be something I'm not and I just can't be false.   It's important we fit with one another and the experience is enjoyable rather than a chore.  I'm there to get the 'stuff' done without creating you any more 'stuff'.

I've taken businesses to levels they hadn't even known were possible, shared opportunities that they thought were beyond their wildest dreams and helped business owners decide (in one afternoon to their surprise on one occasion) what their exit strategy was.  

I support you with your beginning, middle and end.  After all that's how the story books are written and this should be your story with a happy ending.

If we identify an area of the business that needs a specialist I have a fabulous support network who I now consider my very goodfriends that I can trust with my clients.  

You can be confident you and your business are getting the very best care and attention.  My passion is seeing businesses succeed and grow.  I love being part of the team and regard myself a critical friend that brings value to the business. 

Don't think that engaging with an 'outsider' of your team isn't for you. 

                                              I call myself an Improvement Specialist as who can say there isn't room for improvement.

                                         .....It all starts with a chat.  Let's schedule a call https://go.oncehub.com/BusinessGLU

by TJ Duncan