The Coaching Habit, by Michael Bungay Stanier: A Book Review by an ID

As an instructional designer, I recently delved into "The Coaching Habit" by Michael Bungay Stanier, and I must say, it's a game-changer for leadership development. What struck me most is how this book can directly inform the design of high-quality, in-person and e-learning leadership programs.

Stanier's focus on simplicity and effectiveness resonates deeply with my approach to instructional design. His introduction of seven powerful coaching questions, such as "What's the real challenge here for you?" and "How has this been useful?" offers a transformative framework for coaching conversations. These questions are not only insightful but also serve as potent tools for fostering reflection and insight. I envision incorporating these questions into our training programs, particularly in instructor-led sessions. By doing so, we can provide learners with structured opportunities to practice essential coaching skills, thereby enhancing the impact of our programs.

Moreover, Stanier's exploration of habit formation in coaching is incredibly relevant to our work. At our e-learning company, we strive to create learning experiences that drive behaviour change. Stanier's insights into habit formation inspire us to design e-learning programs that not only teach coaching skills but also support learners in developing lasting coaching habits. Through practice, reinforcement, and ongoing support, we can help learners internalize coaching behaviours, aligning with Stanier's principles and maximizing the effectiveness of our programs.

"The Coaching Habit" also offers practical strategies for addressing common coaching challenges. Stanier's guidance on overcoming resistance to coaching and driving behaviour change provides valuable lessons for designing e-learning interventions. By integrating these strategies into our programs, we can empower learners to tackle obstacles and achieve their coaching goals effectively.

In summary, "The Coaching Habit" is more than just a book; it's a blueprint for designing transformative leadership programs. With its practical insights and actionable strategies, it equips instructional designers like myself with the tools and inspiration needed to create engaging and impactful learning experiences.