What to Expect from Your Coach INITIAL MEETING In this get-acquainted session, you are interviewing the coach as much as the other way around. Agree on whether information will be kept confidential or shared with your employer. FACT GATHERING The coach questions you in depth, puts you through a battery of psychological tests, and watches you in action. Expect the coach to interview your peers, bosses, subordinates, and sometimes even family members and friends. ISSUE IDENTIFICATION You and the coach review the feedback to identify key strengths and weaknesses as well as developmental needs. Then the two of you map out a game plan. COACHING In regular strategy sessions extending up to two years, the coach might work on improving communication skills, negotiating style, and conflict management. To gauge your progress, the coach may also meet with your colleagues. FINAL STAGE You meet your goals and graduate. But a coach is typically available for periodic follow-ups, consultations, and fine-tuning. DATA: BUSINESS WEEK Return to main story

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