Before attending: a short E-Learning resource will be sent to you closer to the time. This resource will cover some key theory in advance of the session.

Coaching as a leader is about more than giving direction, it’s about helping people think, grow and perform at their best. This practical and reflective session introduces the core principles of coaching and shows you how to use them in everyday conversations, without needing formal coaching sessions. 

What will this session help you do? 

• Academic staff: support development, confidence, career conversations, and reflective practice while avoiding an overly directive management style.  
• APM staff: encourage ownership, problem-solving, development and career progression. 
• Technicians: support skills development, confidence, autonomy and contribution to team goals.
• Research staff: have more effective development and career conversations, particularly where staff are working towards independence and future career pathways. 

You’ll develop practical skills in active listening, asking open questions, building trust and creating space for reflection. You’ll also explore a simple approach to having effective coaching conversations and consider how to build a culture of coaching within your team. 

This workshop relates to the following competencies outlined in the Competency Framework: Communication, Innovation, and Leading Others: drives performance. 

Learning outcomes:  

• Revisit what coaching is and when it can be used 

• Articulate opportunities to use coaching skills in an informal way 

• Outline how you can use a coaching approach over a period of time 

• Explore a method for having an impactful informal coaching conversation 

Please be aware that this workshop is a discussion-based session with paired and group exercises. You do not have to share anything you are not comfortable with but bear in mind you will be asked to reflect on your own experiences.  


Additional resources for after the session are available here: Module: Leadership of others: Leadership skills | moodle.Nottingham