360 or Multi-Rater Feedback
A critically important tool within the coaching process is often 360 feedback. This is a structured process of soliciting responses to a series of consistent questions about the client's leadership style and management competencies, their respective strengths, and areas of opportunity, posed to 12-15 colleagues that represent their supervisors, peers, and direct reports. This process can be administered via an online survey tool or by individual one-on-one interviews conducted by the coach. Individual information is always confidential and unattributable, and the themes and topics are summarized and aggregated for presentation to the client.
Through a blended approach that leverages insights from the executive (self/client), 360 feedback, and other individual assessment tools, the coach and client uncover where the greatest opportunities for change would also represent the greatest upside or benefit for the client and the organization.
A professional development plan is subsequently co-created that elicits effective change, generates engagement, and improves performance. At intervals throughout the process, key stakeholders highlight shifts in behavior and performance, and identify areas where further advancements are possible.