Introduction:
Welcome back to Day 4 of the 12 Days of Holidays, where we dive into the dynamic world of coaching groups and teams. Today's focus is on the expansive realm of innovation, a multifaceted concept. As the Oxford Dictionary succinctly puts it, innovation is "a new method, idea, product, etc.," but in the coaching context, it extends to responding to change and approaching challenges with a fresh perspective.
## Navigating the Broad Landscape of Coaching for Innovation:
Innovation within the context of coaching groups and teams is akin to navigating a broad landscape with diverse layers of exploration. From creating novel products and services to adapting business models—such as the shift from in-person to virtual programming—coaching for innovation encompasses a spectrum of possibilities.
## Ensuring Every Voice Is Heard in the Virtual Space:
In the virtual realm, ensuring every voice is heard is paramount. Techniques such as annotation, breakouts, and polls become powerful tools to represent each participant's voice. If you haven't already, take a moment to watch the Effective Virtual Conversations call hosted by Jennifer, where these techniques are explored in detail.
## The Creative Process of Innovation:
Innovation is often perceived as a creative process, demanding professionals to think outside the box. Group members engaged in innovation may find themselves spending time in different ways and locations, fostering a conducive environment for creative thinking.
## Expanding Your Coaching Toolkit for Innovation:
Coaches looking to enhance their toolkit for coaching innovation can explore valuable resources. One such recommendation is the book "Coaching for Innovation: Tools and Techniques for Encouraging New Ideas in the Workplace" by Cristina Bianchi and Maureen Steele. Dive deeper into their insights by visiting their website: [Coaching for Innovation](https://www.coachingforinnovation.com).
## Unleashing the Power of Visual Cards:
For those who leverage visual cards in coaching sessions, I included an exercise in the ebook "40 Ways to Work with Visual Cards." Exercise #12 focuses on innovation and involves participants selecting a card that represents a new perspective. The exercise encourages reflection on how the image invokes thoughts on innovation, opening avenues for creative insights.
## Coaching for Innovation: Thought-Provoking Questions:
Enhance your coaching conversations around innovation with thought-provoking questions:
1. What's another way of looking at that?
2. What's important about making a change?
3. What does innovation mean for us?
4. Who do we need to collaborate with for innovation?
5. What mindsets do we need to shift for more effective innovation?
6. What will help us be successful?
## Concluding Thoughts:
As you continue your conversations, consider the vast landscape of coaching for innovation. Whether it's encouraging creativity, exploring new perspectives with visual cards, or asking thought-provoking questions, each approach adds depth to your coaching practice. Stay tuned for more insights in the 12 Days of Holidays series!
Warm regards,
Jennifer
Creator of the Group Coaching Essentials and our 70 and 125 hour pathway programs for the ACTC or our internal Group Coaching Certification
Set up a 15 minute call to discuss your needs with Jennifer
(416)996-8326
Note our office will be closed from December 23 - Jan 7th for the holidays
Register early for 2024 Training for Group and Team Coaches:
- Group Coaching Essentials (8.75 CCEs) starts January 12 - with Evana
- Team Coaching Essentials (14 CCEs) starts January 8
- Mentor Coaching Group for ACC/PCC starts Jan 8th (Mondays at 11 am ET) or Jan 12 (at 9 am ET) - with Jennifer
- Coaching Supervision - starts Jan 11th - with Jennifer and Kathy Activate Your Team and Group Coaching Superpower (Quiz and Course) - 14 CCEs - With Jennifer