The Awesome Power of Masterminding

One of the top three tools I used in the early and middle stages of building my coaching practice is masterminding. This made all the difference in the world to my success as a business owner, so I want to make sure you know about it too.

The concept of masterminding was first introduced by Napoleon Hill. He defined it as?the coordination of knowledge and effort of two or more people who work toward a definite purpose in the spirit of harmony.?(In our case, the definite purpose is business building.)

The most obvious benefit of masterminding is connecting with other people. As entrepreneurs and coaches (and humans) we need to connect and feel alive. You know this because that's why you're part of the Power Hour. This connection creates something in your mind, body and soul. That connection helps you get what you want while you are helping others get what they want. It increases productivity and creativity as you come with the “what” and leave with “how” to get it. This is amazing and an absolute win/win!

Plus, studies have shown that our brains work better together. It’s common to be somewhat isolated as a coach, but we are so much better when we collaborate in groups rather than relying solely on what's going on in our little brains. Alone we are working with just one brain. But when we collaborate, we have more brains working in a group which Napoleon Hill suggests allows for a “third” mind, the collection of minds that can expand what’s possible.

To prepare, each participant shows up to the session with an “agenda”, the area of their business that they are focused on, and an “ask”, a specific question they need help, support or advice on.

Then, participants come to the session ready to play two roles: The Mastermindee and the Masterminder. As the Mastermindee you will present your ask and receive feedback from the others (the Masterminders). As the Mastermindee, you concisely describe your agenda and specific ask, then simply listen and take notes as others spitfire feedback, ideas, suggestions, experience and resources that can help you move forward in this area.

For example, if your agenda is social media because you're just starting to launch an Instagram platform, you may ask for any experience or tips that others can offer to help you be successful. Or maybe you’re toying with re-branding your business and you're working with two or three different ideas. Bring that as the agenda and ask for input and feedback.

As the Mastermindee you're not talking a lot. You’re mostly listening with an open mind and receiving. Don't judge, just receive and show gratitude. Nobody cares if you use the information. Just receive it and let it process through.

Your role as the Masterminder is different. As Masterminder, you want to listen to the Mastermindee’s agenda and ask. You have to be present and centered to listen to what the Mastermindee needs. Then you offer ideas and solutions based on practices, personal experiences and resources you are aware of. You are not giving advice, telling them what they should or shouldn’t do. Instead, you may just tell them what you have done or seen that has been really helpful.

As the Masterminder you are sourcing all the information that is in your head that would help the Mastermindee. Many of us know so much more than we give ourselves credit for. Just bring it up and let it land. The Mastermindee is going to benefit greatly from it. And when you're the Masterminder, be generous and unattached to whether the Mastermindee is going to use your input or not.

One note is that there is no leader in the Mastermind group. This is a collective, collaborative experience. However, while you don't need a facilitator, you do need a timer. Someone to make sure everybody gets their fair share of time.

Also, this is not coaching. You're not asking the Mastermindee what they think they should do. It's more like, here's what I've done or here's what I found that works... So, ask less and tell more.

Finally, be concise. Share the mic. Leave space for the other Masterminders to share, too. I recommend three to four people in your Mastermind group. I also suggest you find people for your group with complementary skill sets so that you can all get the most out of it.

Now go give it a try. You're going to find it’s an amazing tool and asset that will move you forward every single time you do it.

About the Author ?

Jennifer Powers is an ICF Master Certified Coach and founder of Powerhouse Coaching. Powerhouse Coaching specializes in leading 10-hour Group Mentor Coaching Classes for coaches wanting to attain or renew their ACC, PCC or MCC ? credentialing from the International Coaching Federation . Powerhouse Coaching also offers 75-hour ICF Level 3 Master Certified Coach courses to coaches wanting to move from PCC to MCC. Professional coaches can also join the Powerhouse Coaching Club which features skill building and business building for an international community of coaches.?Learn more at www.phcoach.com.