discussion

Among the skills identified to increase success in the field are listening, empathy, patience, being non-judgmental, and the ability to solve problems. After reading post below would a trained psychologist make a better executive coach. Give your thoughts and feedback on what you think an executive coach is.

There are a few psychological focused skills required to be an effective coach according to Bluckert. This includes the ability to problem solve, have empathy, be adaptable, have listening skills, and the ability to have “psychological-mindedness” (Bluckert. 2005). 

Psychological mindfulness is the ability for a coach to be self-aware, and not project their own beliefs or ideas on others. They can understand their own personal emotions and what may influence various decisions that they make. Psychological mindfulness allows a coach to do these same things with their coachee, so they can help them also be aware of what motivates them and help them to make better decisions in the future where necessary (Bluckert. 2005).

A lot of the traits required to be an effective coach are the same types of skills required to be an effective leader. However, one difference is psychological mindfulness. The author explains that this a skill that is hard to develop and some people are never willing to put the work in to do so. This suggests to me that all not all successful leaders can be a coach. It depends on if they are willing to put in the work understand self-awareness for themselves and others. I do not think it is an issue that everyone is not capable, but that some just are not willing. 

A psychologist may make a better executive coach, if they are also the experience in business and leadership to understand the responsibilities the coachee has and what needs to change. This can be a little bit outside of general behavioral theory in my opinion. However, if they do have that experience, I think that enables them to be fantastic coaches. I think that it is not a requirement to have formal training in psychology to be successful, but it certainly does not hurt. Additionally, I think it is wise for executive coaches to consider getting some general training in areas like psychological mindfulness so that they can improve the way they handle their job.