What are effective ways to coach executives from different backgrounds?

I coached many executives coming from different background, cultures, mindset… my advice to coaches is to focus on the inner software that everyone has developed over the years. We all read a situation differently. Let’s start with understanding our own software and accepting that each one of us has a different one. We just need to connect to it.

If you're really dealing with an executive then this is going to be somebody who is familiar with cultural differences, not least of which, their own. You will be working with them because they've chosen you. They will value all dimensions of your experience, capabilities and approach. While of course you can programmatically "assess their cultural dimensions" a more fluid and simple way of dealing with somebody who is different than you is to approach them with an open mind and positive intent. You will have misunderstandings. You will trip over your stereotypes and bump into biases. If your your coachee is genuine in their desire for change then between you these will add much more than they could ever possibly detract.

In my practice, I find that individual analysis, targeted training in emotional intelligence and mental health, as well as continuous development through workshops and mentoring, are essential to effectively coach leaders with diverse backgrounds. These approaches help to strengthen their unique abilities and equip them for leading diverse teams.

As in any new relationship regardless of your differences, you're looking to lean into the similarities that join you. No one will care what you have to say until they understand and recognise that you genuinely care about them. You don't have to like them, but you do have to love them. This is Agape love. The willful, intentional desire to see someone do well and to encourage and to build them up. If this is your genuine approach and you are truly interested in their well being you will have no problems building trust and rapport regardless of your cultural differences.

We often misinterpret what's called the Golden Rule, thinking that we should treat other people the way that we want to be treated. In reality, we need to treat other people the way that they want to be treated. Using tools like DISC or MBTI can be challenging because these tools typically are not cross culturally calibrated, and lean heavily on Western approaches and attitudes. While we will need to adapt our coaching style for people from different backgrounds to our own, I think this is no greater challenge than simply being aware of the similarities differences and needs and desires of the person we are for this moment trying to serve.

Ein starker Rapport und gegenseitige Anpassung sind das Herzstück eines effektiven Coachings. Coach und Coachee müssen ihre Stile und Ziele abgleichen, um eine erfolgreiche und ergebnisorientierte Beziehung zu bilden. Für mich ist es dabei essenziell, kein "Blatt" vor den Mund zu nehmen. natürlich mit Respekt und wertsch?tzend, doch ein Drum-herum-reden und in Watte packen, führt aus meiner Sicht zu nichts,

Ich mag es besonders, in meiner Arbeit als Coach die 'Ressourcenschatzkiste' zu nutzen, um verborgene Ressourcen oder St?rken nicht nur sichtbar, sondern vor allem fühlbar zu machen. Oftmals wissen wir zwar rational, dass wir etwas theoretisch k?nnen, aber es fehlt uns das stimmige Gefühl dazu. Diese emotionale Verbindung herzustellen ist ein wichtiger Teil des Coachings, denn sie erm?glicht es den Führungskr?ften, ihr volles Potenzial nicht nur zu erkennen, sondern auch wirklich zu leben und in ihrer Führungsrolle zu integrieren.

I have coached clients from several countries within every continent. While I use the GROWTH model, awareness of my own mindset and beliefs is important in the effectiveness of the coaching process. Start with simple, heartfelt curiosity and respect. With genuine interest in helping the clients achieve their goals while staying in the zone of their best selves. And openness to hold the space for their experiences and goals without judgment.