Are you Coachable? 4 Key Qualities that Indicate Coaching Success

Not all coaching clients have the same potential for success in the process. The most effective coaches recognize the best candidates for the process, and focus on cultivating a practice that will attract and support those attorneys. Unfortunately, in many organizations, there is a tendency to refer only "problem performers" for special support like coaching. In our view the best use of coaching time and attention is to focus on successful attorneys who are ready - with help and support - to move to the next level of achievement. In the same way that we consider it a waste of resources to offer music coaching or lessons with an expert teacher to a tone deaf student, we believe that coaching services should work be provided for lawyers - and other service professionals - who are poised to advance and could do so more efficiently with the help of a skilled coach.

What traits or characteristics are typical of an ideal coaching client? We look for the following:

1. An attorney in good standing with a positive reputation among leaders and peers

2. Someone who demonstrates potential for greater growth and productivity

3. Often, a good coaching client is someone who is transitioning to a new position in the organization (e.g., team leader, practice group head, committee chair, partnership, etc.) and who will jump up the learning curve with the help and support of skills-based professional or business development coaching

4. A high performing lawyer who is experiencing "temporary difficulties" due to the loss of a significant client; recovery from significant illness or other personal setback; or a lateral partner who is trying to find his/her place in the new tribe

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