A Coaching Model Created by Ayeda Ravindran
(Executive Coach, INDIA)
A – Acknowledgement, Awareness
G – Ground
R – Review
E – Evaluate and Expand
E – Envision
The aim of coaching is to eventually arrive at a co-created action oriented solution to the clients problems. The AGREE coaching model focuses on an “easy to follow practice”, which allows the coach to follow an easy step wise processing of the clients problem to arrive at a solution. This model is based on the intention of allowing the client to come into agreement with his needs and then taking inspired action.
This 5 step model is based on some core coaching tools, positive psychology, meditation techniques which help to build awareness in the client about the problem and what actions need to be taken. As we know, the client comes to us whole- all the answers are within them and all we need to do is allow these answers to come forth from the client themselves.
The steps of the AGREE model are as below:
Step 1- Acknowledgement/Awareness
This is a key and foundational step in the coaching relationship. The beginning of any relationship comes with the acknowledgement of the other person. In this case the client needs to feel acknowledged, both for their presence as well as for their need.
In the process of acknowledgement, the client also is in a space where they are enabled to explore their needs- this brings about an awareness of their problem in greater depth.
Step 2 – Ground
An important part of this model is the grounding of the client. In this instance, grounding means to bring the client into a relaxed but focused state. This can be achieved through various methods like visualization, breathing, a short meditation etc. The result is a more relaxed and open client, who is able to focus more on the issue at hand. Grounding with the client, helps both the coach and the client enter a common space and platform from which to work from.
Step 3- Review
This step is used to ensure that the client focuses on the problem at hand. In the review process, the coach helps the client analyze and get to the actual problem rather than the symptom of the problem. With the use of tools like powerful questioning and listening during the review process the exact problem can be identified. What might seem to be a large problem could turn out to be a series of related smaller problems. The review process also helps the client to put a boundary or a limit on the problem. Often clients are not able to articulate clearly what their problem is and through the review process, clarity can be achieved, which is a major step towards achieving a solution.
Step 4- Evaluate and Expand
In this step, the client is invited to explore all the options available to him. Through a process of questioning, and other tools which could also be psychometric in nature, the client is guided through a process of discovery of the various solutions that lie within himself, waiting to burst forth and bloom. At this point the coach needs to help energize and expand the clients’ vision and dream and allow the process to flow naturally. There also needs to be a clear alignment between what problem the client had come in with, and the solution that is finally decided upon. From this stage, an action plan needs to be created that is clearly defined. The coach needs to get the buy in of the client, and their commitment to implementing this plan. In other words, this is where “the rubber meets the road”! While going through this process of achievement of the goals and the resolution of the problem, the client needs to resolve any blocks and obstacles that come up. Once this is done, the client needs to clearly commit to taking action and making the Action Plan a success.
Step 5- Envision
This is the final stage of the process, where the client envisions the success of the action plan. Through the coaching process, the client gets to review the progress of the plan and to celebrate successes. This is a very powerful step in maintaining focus and keeping up the positive energy needed for success. This process empowers the client and allows them to grow and expand in all areas of their lives.