Wendy, from the series Billions, is the ultimate performance coach. She uses her knowledge of psychology and behaviour to get the most out of her hedge fund colleagues to ensure they are performing at their best (and making as much money as possible!)
OK… put aside for the moment that she’s a little calculating and a bit more focused on the wellbeing of the business bottom line than the people in it. Focus on the idea that for professionals, much like top athletes, coaching can boost their performance and skyrocket their future careers.
Despite the name, high performance coaching isn’t just for star talent, it’s for anyone who wants to reach their full potential. Performance coaches work with individuals to overcome barriers that are holding them back, and with teams and organisations to ensure the work environment is conducive to success.
And now, online options offer increased accessibility and flexibility for workers everywhere. Our newfound comfort with video conferencing means that you can access the best coach for you wherever you are in Australia.
How does a performance coach help?
Performance coaching helps people increase motivation to change and identify thoughts and behaviours that hold them back. It can be particularly useful for:
- Long-range career and life planning – we know people who have clear plans and goals tend to be more successful
- Navigating career transitions and decisions
- Making changes to behaviours and breaking bad habits, including managing work-life flow
- Managing major professional and personal setbacks
The easiest way to make an appointment online is to search for MyHealth1st.
What to look for in a performance coach
It’s a good idea to call potential coaches and have a chat to see whether they’ve got the goods
- Systematic processes: Performance coaching is a systematic rather than ad hoc process. It involves assessing current state, identifying ideal future state, discussing goals for change and planning how to operationalise and achieve those goals. It identifies how to measure success.
- Good ‘bedside manner’: You want your performance coach to be the right personality fit for you. The right combination of directive, supportive and motivational. To be effective your coach needs to make you feel supported to go outside your comfort zone.
- Good credentials and extensive experience: Anybody can call themselves a coach so check to make sure they have solid qualifications in psychology or one of the behavioural sciences. Check their track record to make sure they have experience in coaching or a related area like change management
If you’re looking for someone to bring out your best at work or in other areas of your life, or if you are rethinking your next career move, then a Performance Coach may be just what you’re looking for. Book an appointment now .