The rules in corporate America have changed – sometimes there don’t even seem to be rules.  The structure, the security, the traditional paths to success don’t exist anymore, and people are looking to leaders for answers.

How can leaders set an example when employees are looking for direction and guidance?  How can they guide their companies to success in today’s uncertain world?

Coaching can help leaders do this.  It can propel leaders to set powerful, positive examples for their employees.  It can support them in making their organizations as productive as they can be.

In order to achieve your full leadership potential, here is what you should look for in your coaching relationship.  Your coach should:

• Create a mutual understanding of the coaching process and its parameters
• Create a safe, supportive environment that produces ongoing mutual respect and trust
• Ask questions that create insight and inspire action
• Create opportunities for ongoing learning
• Explore alternative ideas and solutions
• Develop an effective plan that is attainable, measurable and specific with a timeline
• Establish mutual accountability

When I think about all the change that’s happened in the past few years, I am staggered by just how challenging this period has been in our lives.  I encourage leaders to engage in a coaching relationship to more effectively help us as we slug our way through the chaos.  The world depends on it.

Darla Powell Phillips is a life and leadership coach who guides business executives, managers and professionals through powerful personal and professional transformations.  She is a member of the International Coach Federation (ICF) and a credentialed Associate Certified Coach (ACC).