How do you build a coaching alliance with coachees and sponsors?

3 Align on goals and outcomes

The third step in building a coaching alliance is to align on the goals and outcomes of the coaching. The coach, the coachee, and the sponsor should agree on the specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals that the coachee wants to achieve through coaching. The coach should help the coachee identify their strengths, gaps, opportunities, and challenges, and design a coaching plan that suits their needs and preferences. The sponsor should provide input, feedback, and support to the coachee's goals and plan, and monitor the progress and results. The coach should facilitate regular reviews and adjustments of the goals and outcomes with the coachee and the sponsor.

4 Manage boundaries and confidentiality

The fourth step in building a coaching alliance is to manage the boundaries and confidentiality of the coaching. The coach, the coachee, and the sponsor should respect the boundaries and confidentiality of each other and the coaching process. The coach should adhere to the ethical codes and standards of their profession and organization, and protect the privacy and confidentiality of the coachee and the sponsor. The coachee should respect the coach's role, time, and expertise, and be open, honest, and committed to the coaching. The sponsor should respect the coachee's autonomy, learning, and growth, and avoid interfering or micromanaging the coaching. The coach should communicate clearly and transparently with the coachee and the sponsor about the boundaries and confidentiality of the coaching, and address any issues or concerns that may arise.

5 Foster collaboration and feedback

The fifth step in building a coaching alliance is to foster collaboration and feedback among the coach, the coachee, and the sponsor. Coaching is a collaborative process that requires mutual trust, respect, and communication. The coach, the coachee, and the sponsor should work together as a team, and share their perspectives, insights, and feedback. The coach should encourage the coachee and the sponsor to participate actively, creatively, and constructively in the coaching. The coachee should seek and apply feedback from the coach and the sponsor, and share their achievements, challenges, and learnings. The sponsor should provide and receive feedback from the coach and the coachee, and acknowledge and celebrate their successes.

6 Evaluate and celebrate results

The sixth and final step in building a coaching alliance is to evaluate and celebrate the results of the coaching. The coach, the coachee, and the sponsor should assess the impact and value of the coaching on the coachee's goals, performance, and development. The coach should use various methods and tools to measure and demonstrate the results of the coaching, such as surveys, assessments, testimonials, or case studies. The coachee should reflect on their growth, learning, and changes, and identify their next steps and actions. The sponsor should recognize and appreciate the coachee's efforts, achievements, and contributions, and provide ongoing support and opportunities for their development. The coach should also acknowledge and appreciate the coachee's and the sponsor's feedback, trust, and collaboration, and celebrate the completion and success of the coaching.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?