The definition of “Coach” as described by dictionary.com includes many adaptations, below are just a few of the descriptors:
1. a large, horse-drawn, four-wheeled carriage, usually enclosed.
2. a public motorbus.
3. Railroads. day coach.
4. Also called air coach. a class of airline travel providing less luxurious accommodations than first class at a lower fare.
5. a person who trains an athlete or a team of athletes: a football coach.
6. a private tutor who prepares a student for an examination.
I recently ran into an NFL coach in a local restaurant eating with his family. While most folks gave him the courtesy of enjoying his evening with wife and child in peace a few of the on-lookers took the opportunity to say hello or comment on the up-coming season, he was pleasant in his acknowledgement of others and held a certain confidence you only find with individuals that have knowledge of the “play book”, the interaction was fascinating.
It dawned on me while I watched folks recognize him that we, an educated, sophisticated, society, are so accepting of coaches in athletics but still shy away in our own professional development. Not one person in that restaurant would dismiss advice or counsel from this man if they intended to play in the company’s flag football game or their local league but we still have not mastered the art of coaching when it comes to the most competitive aspect of our lives…our career.
Professional coaches are mentors, they offer skill development and fine tuning to the best athletic competitors in the world, yet most professional’s shy away from this same type of development for their own careers. If we don’t understand sports, or we do understand them and want to get better we call a coach. I find it amazing that we have grown to readily seek out and pay for the advice of an expert by hiring a tennis pro or golf coach to aid in our swing or stroke but with regards to professional development, it is assumed by most that there is nothing more to be taught, or if there is we will learn it as we go.
Ask yourself this…Is my career competitive?
A coach understands the importance of competition and intensity, a coach has the ability to keep all individuals focused and engaged.
With rookies and veterans alike standing on every corner ready to suit up and assume a position in the starting line-up, a coach helps every member of the team be their best; they challenge the players to go above and beyond in each practice time after time until each play, what is the right thing to do, become second nature. While a coach can help the players prepare for the challenges they will face, it is ultimately up to the players at game time to put what they learned into action. The coach’s job is to help each player focus, sharpen their skills and maintain a competitive edge. With unemployment rates at an all time high, it is like the final brick in the proverbial ton hit everyone gainfully employed with the realization that much like professional sports the competition associated within the business arena has never been stronger. A career coach understands the intensity and focus needed to be successful in today’s business field. Good career coaches study the plays of winning organizations known as “best practices” and pass these secrets along to their clients. They help their players learn and practice the best moves in many areas.
If you are ready to take your take your career to the next level and play like the professionals, contact Career-Forward for a one-on-one consultation. http://www.career-forward.com/
No matter what a man’s past has been, his future is spotless. (John R. Rice)
