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Path 6: Coaching Direct Reports

Skilled coaching is one of the critical paths to effective managerial leadership. It is not to be confused with training, mentoring, counseling, or teaching (see Glossary). Each has its place, but the focus of managerial coaching is to:

• Help the individual acquire any additional needed skills in the role.

• Identify areas needing improvement for performing effectively in the role.

• Help the person understand the full range of his role.

Managerial coaching is an interactive process between the manager and her direct reports, targeted toward the performance improvement of the individual in the role. When a manager takes on the role of coach, she needs to keep four things in mind:

1. The manager is in a power ...

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