I recently had a call with one of our Level 7 Coaching & Mentoring learners. He shared how much he had learned through completing the first written assignment and how it had already elevated some of the coaching conversations he has planned as part of his practical coaching experience.
He is an experienced professional who has coached and developed people throughout his career. Yet he reflected that taking the time to step back, explore the theory, challenge his assumptions and critically review his approach had given him a fresh perspective on his practice.
Most senior-level coaches already have years, and often decades, of experience helping leaders think differently, challenge assumptions and make better decisions.
They have developed their own unique style over time. Some are highly structured, others are intuitive. Some rely on powerful questioning, whilst others create space for reflection and insight.
What many experienced coaches don’t have, however, is a process, or accountability vehicle, that has challenged them to critically examine their own practice.
A qualification at Level 7 isn’t about teaching an experienced coach how to coach. It’s about helping them understand why they coach the way they do and whether there are aspects of their practice that could be enhanced.
We explore the theories, ethics, models and evidence that sit behind senior-level coaching practice and critically evaluate what works, what doesn’t and why.
This year, we have worked with six individuals on our tailored 1:1 Level 7 Coaching & Mentoring qualification. Some are professional coaches looking to strengthen the credibility of their offer. Others are senior leaders seeking to enhance their ability to coach and develop people within their organisation.
What they all have in common is a desire to elevate their practice.
For many, one of the most powerful aspects of the qualification has been reflective learning. Taking the time to critically review coaching conversations, challenge assumptions and explore how values, beliefs and experiences influence the coaching relationship.
The qualification also encourages coaches to move beyond favourite tools and models. Rather than using a framework because it feels comfortable, learners critically evaluate different approaches and make informed decisions about which methods are most appropriate for different situations and individuals.
Perhaps most importantly, Level 7 coaching develops a deeper sense of professional confidence. Not because learners leave with more answers, but because they develop a greater understanding of human development, leadership and organisational change.
The best coaches never stop learning.
In many ways, the most experienced coaches often gain the most from a Level 7 qualification because they have a wealth of real-world experience to reflect upon, analyse and refine.
Are you interested in the ILM Level 7 in Executive & Senior Level Coaching & Mentoring qualification? Give us a call on 0207 101 3619
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