The ICU Method for Group Feedback

Group coaching is an extremely powerful method to facilitate a leader's transformative growth through peer feedback, yet there's a real missed opportunity if a coach does not bring in the rest of the group to play a role in the client's transformation. That's why I created the ICU method. It's a simple framework to bring in the rest of the group and instill a sense of deep support and camaraderie.

Offer this to the group when the focus is on coaching one person at a time.

Step One: Identify one leader to be coached. This person plays the role of client and the rest of the group plays the role of peer coach.

Step Two: The lead coach (i.e. you) begins coaching the leader. After a bit of 1:1 coaching, pass the microphone to the group.

Step Three: Ask the group to use the ICU Framework to structure the peer coaching.

The ICU Method

I - Share information/resources that may be helpful (ask permission first)

This step emphasizes the importance of consent and relevance in sharing resources or information. Before providing advice, suggestions, or resources, you seek permission from the individual. This respect for their autonomy ensures that your input is welcome and sets the stage for a more receptive interaction. It's about recognizing the individual's current situation and offering support that's tailored to their needs, acknowledging that they are the best judge of what might be helpful to them at that moment.

C - Ask a courageous coaching question

This step focuses on the power of asking thought-provoking questions that challenge the individual to think deeply and reflect on their situation, behaviors, or beliefs. Courageous coaching questions are often open-ended, encouraging self-exploration and personal insight. They are called "courageous" because they may touch on areas that are outside of one's comfort zone, requiring both the coach and the coachee to engage in a level of vulnerability and honesty. Such questions can lead to breakthroughs and significant personal growth.

U - Share an impact you felt

Here, the focus shifts to the expression of personal impact, where you share how the individual's actions or words have affected you. This step is about creating a connection and demonstrating the effect of their behavior or choices from your perspective. It serves multiple purposes: it provides feedback on their impact, fosters a deeper understanding of their actions, and builds emotional intelligence by reflecting on the emotional responses elicited. Sharing your feelings or the impact you've experienced can also help validate the individual's efforts and contribute to a sense of accomplishment and understanding.

The ICU Method combines respect, challenge, and personal connection to facilitate growth, awareness, and positive change. It leverages the power of permission, deep inquiry, and shared experiences to create a supportive yet challenging environment for development.

Give it a try and let me know what you think.