ESB Power Generation coaching workshop

ESB Power Generation recently held a very successful workshop for practising and trainee, internal coaches. The workshop was also attended by Dave O’Brien, Coaching Co-ordinator Networks and was facilitated by Paula King, Coaching Director, Executive Coaching Solutions. The workshop objectives were to review progress to date, to set goals for the coming year and to provide skills training for the coaches.

In many ways, the coaching panel is one of ESB Power Generations best-kept secrets. The coaching panel has been built up over the last year or so to 11 coaches with a further three coaches due to complete training shortly. Over this initial period almost 40 clients have availed of the coaching service.

The workshop provoked very lively discussion and analysis. It highlighted the key successes achieved particularly the positive feedback from clients. A fundamental objective of coaching is to help clients to stand back, identify their strengths and then undertake specific actions to further enhance their own performance. For many clients, this reflective time proves invaluable since it allows them to re-focus and develop themselves further.

Paddy Stapleton, Senior Executive Coach has commissioned a more detailed assessment of coaching and its benefits to ESB. This assessment will be undertake by an external coaching expert and will report in the coming months.

The workshop also identified a number of actions areas including: raising awareness among managers and staff of the benefits of coaching and also offering the service more pro-actively to individuals, who were changing jobs, considering a role change or attending management development programmes. There was broad agreement among those present that coaching has been beneficial and needs to be more widely used.

Frequently asked questions
What is coaching?
Coaching is a service that provides clients with an opportunity to selfreflect in a structured manner with the help of a coach. The client’s needs and confidentiality are at the very core of coaching. The coach will help a client to stand back, identify their strengths and undertake specific actions to further enhanced their own performance. Most importantly it emphasises setting clear personal goals and taking significant actions to achieving those goals.

What time commitment is involved?
Typically seven – nine one hour sessions 10 to 14 days a part. Clients also undertake agreed actions between sessions.

Is coaching only for individuals who have performance problems?
Absolutely not. The majority of those availing of the service in ESB Power Generation to date were good performers looking for further improvement. All individuals can benefit from coaching since it’s the clients specific needs set the coaching objectives.

Where can I get more information?
Contact Denis Kelly Coaching Coordinator (ext 27137) or any of the coaching panel in the photo above. A more detailed coaching information brochure is in preparation.

How can I access the coaching service?
Preferably, individuals should request coaching or be recommended for coaching as part of their ITDPs. Line Managers can then request the service. However individuals may also contact the Coaching Coordinator directly.