Chapter 9: The Coach 247Group Coaching
Britton (2010) defines group coaching as “a small-group process
throughout which there is the application of coaching principles for
the purposes of personal or professional development, the
achievement of goals, or greater self-awareness, along thematic or
non-thematic lines” (Chapter 1, location 234). Cockerman adds, “a
group coach creates an environment of confidentiality and trust
where group members are open to being coached” (as cited in
Britton, 2009, Chapter 1, location 726). Group coaching differs from
that of training in that it is a facilitated group process, which relies
heavily on core coaching skills and competencies (Britton, 2009). To
ensure the group process maintains the integrity of coaching, group
coaches must synthesize group facilitation skills with those of
coaching, including mastery abilities, and knowledge of models and
approaches. Coaches must make the best of small group discussions,
reflective exercises and action planning.
A difficult aspect of group coaching is ensuring that the groups
drive the coaching agenda; setting goals and learning objectives.
When engaging in group coaching coaches must make sure learners
progress with learning outside of the coaching sessions, through
assignments for observing or demonstrating new skills.
Importantly, coaches who engage in group coaching must
Create safety and confidentiality
Set ground rules or ways of working