Values-Based Coaching – Objectivity

Coaching is about asking thoughtful questions. My wife, Lori, recently said to me “you should ask coaching questions on your blog.” So that’s what I’m doing, starting with today’s post. I call it Values-Based Coaching, where I’ll highlight a specific value and provide relevant questions as they relate to marketing, leadership, and marriage. Today I’ll address all three areas. Let me know what you think.

 

 

The value of objectivity means undistorted by emotion or personal bias; based on observable phenomena.

Marketing Questions:

• If your organization claims to be open to feedback and input from customers, employees, and/or other stakeholders, how often do find yourself (and others) scoffing at or ignoring what is provided?
• How does management (including you) respond when the phrase is said: “they just don’t get it”?
• When was the last time you physically stood and observed the process of a real customer buying something from your company, or attempting to resolve an issue?

Leadership Questions:

• How many hours a week is spent away from your office, listening to customers, employees, or channel partners? (time talking doesn’t count)
• Why do you hesitate to ask the difficult questions? What are you afraid of?
• If you have ever lashed out in rage at someone (regardless if they deserved it), what one thing could you have done differently to maintain self-control?

Marriage Questions:

• Think of the last time you saw your spouse filled with great joy. What were the circumstances that led up to that moment, and how did you contribute to that?
• When you next see your spouse (and they have time to talk), ask: “If I could change just one thing to improve our relationship, what would it be?” (then just listen, without interruption)
• What is your spouse’s favorite color? When was the last time you gave them something in that color?

 

How can the value of objectivity help you make a difference?

 

Today’s value was selected from the “Effectiveness-Influence” category, based on the e-book Developing Your Differentiating Values.