Karen's Coaching Session

[Karen Dawson]

Here's a place for questions, comments, suggestions for other applied improvisation ideas...all connected to coaching.

As was obvious by the design of my session, I am particularly interested in applying improvisation principles to the development of coaching skills within organizations. The focus of my work (quite by accident) has become nurturing coaching cultures - building the skills necessary for meaningful, change-creating conversations.

Thanks to all who attended. And I'm curious:

- What are you still thinking about?
- What remains murky?
- What other exercises/games might we try?
- What are the most important things we should be talking about?

I'm so happy that you attended the session. I invite any of you to connect with questions or to deepen our conversation.

Karen

[Cheryl Gould]

I attended the session and in fact recorded much of it and listened to it on my drive through LA today. The contrast between the "expert" asking and listening for all the details versus the "coach" listening for emotions and stuck spots is what strikes me (and I hope stays with me to become more of my habit.) I think I do both but what comes out of my mouth is the expert part (not proud of that ;) and truly I care about the other. It's good to remember that the details often distract/detract from the important stuff. I also appreciated your distinction between mentor and coach. Mentors having been through it and sharing their wisdom versus a coach who may not have been through it all but has a lot to offer to help anyone become unstuck.

On the topic of using more improv in coaching might require a glass of wine and a conversation. Or, maybe suggest a particular situation that you've encountered and we can all brainstorm ways to incorporate improv into the learning.

[Lyn Travis]

Karen,
Wish I could have joined in your session as well. I also use improv in my coaching and would love to nonetheless connect on the discussion or if you open a Chicago group.
Thanks!
:) L

[Leif Hansen]

Wish I could have come, but look forward to lurking on the conversation. As there is lots of activity on the site Karen, you may need to individually ping a few of your attendees and point them here and/or start a group related to this topic.
warmly,
Leif