Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Trends in Workplace Learning and Performance
• $109.25 Billion was spent last year in the US on workplace learning and performance;
• The average number of formal learning hours per employee increased (anywhere from 35 hours – 43 hours);
• The average cost per learning hour fell;
• Globalization is continuing to provide challenge for organizations who want to expand their learning programs;
• Leadership development and Succession planning were the focus of some of the BEST organizations;
• The strategic link between learning and performance is growing.
As a coach or trainer, what is the impact of these trends on your business and work? What new possibilities exist for your work? What current offerings need to be revised?
You can order your copy of the ASTD State of the Industry Report at http://store.astd.org.
I’d be interested in hearing your thoughts,
Jennifer
Jennifer Britton
Potentials Realized
Group Coaching Essentials
Toll Free: 1-866-217-1960
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Annual Holiday Call - Join me on Tuesday Dec 12 at 2 pm (EST)
This year I will be speaking on general success tips for your group programs. It's guaranteed to be a content rich hour. If you have specific questions related to group programs, I would also be happy to address these on the call -- email me your questions prior to Tuesday.
To reserve your space on the bridgeline, please email me at jennifer[at]potentialsrealized.com.
I look forward to having you on the call!
With best wishes for your group programs,
Jennifer
Group Coaching Essentials
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Keep It Simple - Systems for Your Group Programs
Keeping it simple for your group programs may involve automating or systematizing different components of your group programs. For example, do you have in place:
1. An easy way to accept registrations
2. A list of your upcoming programs that you can quickly refer to (all in one place)
3. Credit Card processing facilities (so you aren't waiting for the check that is in the mail)
4. A list of possible venues for your group programs
5. A selection of bridgelines you can use
6. Recording facilities if needed
7. Course materials and/or modules completed that can be modified and combined for different programs
8. Promo material which can be adpated for new program announcements (e.g. postcards, website, blog, brochure or media kit)
9. A system to track course registration and payment information
10. A system to get the word out quickly to potential participants about your upcoming programs (enewsletter, facilities to post your information electronically, a mailing list)
11. A program/course overview or information package
These are just a few systems you may want to consider developing for your group programs as they evolve. The great thing about many of these tools is that once developed they can be reused every time you run the program, or when you add new ones.
December is a wonderful time of year to address some of these systems as we move into the quieter holiday period. What are the top three systems you could develop for your business that would make it easier? What do you need to do to complete these? When will you have them done?
Please comment below regarding others systems you feel could make your group program management simpler, easier and more fun!
Jennifer Britton
Potentials Realized
Group Coaching Essentials
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Winter 2007 Program Line-up Announced
Our programs over the coming months will include:
A Holiday Virtual Retreat - December 9/06 from 10 - 3 pm (EST) --Note the Early Bird special ends November 30th. This is a virtual retreat and will be held by phone -- so treat yourself!
Group Coaching Essentials - Tuesdays 1-2 pm(EST) on Jan. 9. 16. 23. and 30 (call on 30thwill be from 10:45-12 noon)
Workshop and Retreat Essentials (TEC) - Wednesdays 10:45 - 12 noon (EST) - Jan. 17, 24, 31 and Feb 7/07
The 90 Day Biz Success Program - Mondays 7-8 pm (EST) with group calls held on Jan 8, 22, Feb 5, 19, March 5, 19 and our celebration call on April 2/07. This program also includes one 30 minute individual coaching session per month.
The 90 Day Your Balanced Life Program - Tuesdays 8-9 pm (EST) with group calls held on January 9, 23. Feb 6, 20, March 6, 20 and our celebration call on April 3/07. This program also includes one 30 minute individual coaching session/month.
I hope that you will consider joining me for one of these programs in the coming months. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me.
If you are looking for resources, we've just launched a new online bookstore in collaboration with Amazon. It contains a number of my favorite resources for group program development, design and business. It is going to be an organic site, with titles added regularly. If you have any suggestions of addtional resources you would like to see there, please comment! You can access the link to the "bookstore" in the Links column on the right.
With best wishes,
Jennifer
Jennifer Britton, CPCC, CHRP, CPT
Potentials Realized
http://www.groupcoachingessentials.com
Email: jennifer@potentialsrealized.com
Toll Free: 1-866-217-1960
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Marketing Success for Your Group Programs
Marketing is a critical component of group program success -- even with the best program it won't be a success without participants.
If you are wanting to launch a new program in early 2007, now is the time to turn some of your attention to marketing. Here are a few things to consider as you move forward with your marketing efforts:
1. Know Your Audience - The way you market your program - when, where and how - really comes down to Knowing Your Audience. Marketing a corporate program is going to have a very different approach than a public program. For tips on getting to know your audience, email me for a complimentary copy of the Group Coaching Client Assessment. Your client base will inform everything from when, where and how you offer your program, to how much you charge, to the topics which are covered.
2. Develop a marketing strategy -- Do you have a marketing plan, budget and strategy in place? If not, now is the time to start. What concrete action steps will you take? How will you let people know about your program? What budget do you have available?
3. Persevere - Marketing is about consistent effort. We are bombarded on a daily basis with up to 5000 marketing messages from large and small companies. It may take a consumer 7-11 exposures with your message before they decide to buy. How can you get your message out continuously?
4. Timing - I often get asked about when you should start marketing. Take a look at your participant base -- do they tend to get booked months in advance or are they a last minute shopper who can attend programs with short notice? If you are looking to launch a program for the new year, now is a great time to start marketing -- prior to the deluge of other holiday messages. You may also want to take the opportunity to send out special notices to people you know along with any holiday greetings. Continue with your marketing efforts right up until the start of your program (but don't make this an excuse to delay starting your marketing now). I am often amazed at how many last minute registrants I will get. Note that last minute registration for an in person program is often less than last minute for a phone-based program.
5. Systematize - Make marketing easy for yourself. Pieces that you will want to consider having in place are the following:
- Program overview -- including venue, dates, times, what's included, and most importantly, what are the benefits for the participants in taking your program
- Registration forms -- online or other
- Payment options - how will you receive payment? Do you have credit facilitites in place?
- How do you want to get the message out -- ezine? blog? word of mouth?
- Referral Networks - who else can help you get the message out?
5. Build Relationships with prospects: Research shows that people buy from those who they trust. How well do your potential clients know you? What do you have to support them in their goals?
6. Make it Consistent - How can marketing become a part of your everyday work? Marketing requires consistent effort. I often use the metaphor of a snowball -- once it gains enough momentum, it can take on a life of its' own. Ask yourself what are five things I can do this week to move my marketing efforts forward? These don't all have to be big - consistent effort is the key.
Keep these strategies in mind as you move forward with your 2007 marketing efforts.
Are there some marketing success strategies you would like to share? Please feel free to comment below. I look forward to hearing from you!
Jennifer
Jennifer Britton, CPCC, CHRP, CPT
Potentials Realized/ Group Coaching Essentials
For those interested, I am offering a 2007 Marketing Tune Up for Your Group Programs. This includes two 30 minute sessions with me by phone, to work on your marketing plan, budget, strategy or message. I will have 5 tune ups available until December 20th at $145 USD/each ($30 off my regular rate). Is it time for your tune up? To book your marketing tune up please contact me toll free at 1-866-217-1960 or by email. I look forward to hearing from you!
Monday, November 13, 2006
Conference Roundups - ICF and CSTD 2006
I have received a number of requests for 2007 dates which will be out soon (hopefully by the end of the week). In addition to our monthly teleseminar programs (Group Coaching Essentials and Training Essentials), I will continue to offer shorter 1.5 hour teleseminar programs on topics relevant for group coaches and trainers. I will also be holding a number of in-person training programs in 2007 here in the Toronto area -- more information to follow. I will also continue to facilitate a number of retreat programs, focusing on creating the space for you to develop your group programs.
There are only two days left for the Engaging Exercises for Teams and Groups E-Manual special which ends of November 15th. If you are looking for additional group exercises to fill up your back pocket with, this manual can support you. Special pricing of $19.95 USD/$21.90 Cdn is in effect until Wednesday evening. Click here for more details.
Both conferences provided lots of information and useful resources which I will be blogging about in weeks and months to come.
I would also like to hear from you as to what will be most useful in moving your work with groups and teams forward. What topics would you like me to be blogging about? Please use the comment link below or email me directly at jennifer [at]potentialsrealized[dot]com.
If I had to highlight three key themes from both conferences I would include:
- The need for coaches and trainers to be able to speak "the business language" to corporations, and to communicate our results in the same way. How would you rate yourself on business knowledge? Tony Bingham, President and CEO of ASTD, spoke to us at the CSTD conference on Wednesday and brought this message home powerfully. Do you know how to communicate with financial indicators and other business metrics?
- The importance of creating integrated solutions for clients. Are you offering what your clients want? Is coaching or training always the answer? How can you further develop your complimentary skills (facilitation, training, coaching) to provide more holistic solutions with greater results for clients?If you are an internal coach, what would external coaches bring to your program. Likewise, if you work as an external coach, how can you partner with internal coaches?
- Lead from the edge. Guy Kawasaki talked to the ICF Conference about being able to jump the curve. What is the edge in the work you are creating? Are you following trends or are you leading them?
Speak with you soon,
Jennifer
Jennifer Britton, CPT, CHRP, CPCC
Potentials Realized
Web: www.potentialsrealized.com
Toll Free: 1-866-217-1960
email: jennifer[at]potentialsrealized[dot]com
Monday, November 06, 2006
ICF Conference Buzz
I'm hoping to do a longer conference brief later on, but here are some of the intial highlights that stood out for me:
Guy Kawasaki talked to us on Friday on the Art of Innovation -- as a former software envangelist for Apple, his messages were great!
Andrea Lee on Coaching Electric -- gave some great tips on coaches who are walking the talk and expanding their business through technology. For those of you who work with entrepreneurs or professionals leaving the corproate sector you may want to check out Escape from Cubicle Nation
Lynne Twist - The Soul of Money -- an inspirational and provocative presentation on our relationship with money. An excellent book for either you or your clients. Like myself, Lynne worked globally for many years, and her stories really touched my heart.
There's so much more to share, however, I am getting ready for another two days of conference. Tomorrow, I will be speaking at the Canadian Society for Training and Development Annual Conference on Retreats that Engage and Stay! I'm looking forward to it and connecting with other Canadian professionals in the learning domain.
I'll be back later this week with many more highlights from both events. Speak with you then! If you were at the ICF Conference, what were your highlights? Feel free to comment using the link below.
Jennifer
Jennifer Britton, CPCC, CHRP, CPT
Potentials Realized
The Group Coaching Essentials teleseminar program starts on Thursday at 10:45 - 12 noon (EST). We'll be meeting on November 9, 16, 30 and December 7th. Are you ready to launch your programs for January? I'd love to have you join us! There's still time to register -- email me at jennifer [at]potentialsrealized[dot]com.
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Less Is Definitely More
In short, the 80/20 rule encourages you to take a look at your overall content for a group coaching program, and to carve out and put aside at least 20% of your content. This material can become part of a follow-up program for that group of participants, or part of another product (for example, an e-course or a retreat program).
Think back to recent group programs you have run. Where would you rate your amount of content? Too much, too little, just right? What's the impact on the group when you have too much content? Overwhelm? Lack of time to really dig into the topics? Lack of engagement because too much is being covered?
My request this week is to ask you to take a look at what you are going to cover in an upcoming program. Apply the 80/20 rule and see what the impact is on the group you are working with! I'd love to hear your experience with the 80/20 rule - feel free to comment.
Warmly,
Jennifer
Jennifer Britton
Potentials Realized
Web: www.groupcoachingessentials.com
Email: jennifer@potentialsrealized.com
The next Group Coaching Essentials program starts in a few weeks! We will be meeting on Thursdays from 10:45 - 12 noon (EST) on November 9, 16, 23, 30th. This will be the last program for the year. Are you ready to launch your group coaching programs in January? Reserve your spot today.
Monday, October 16, 2006
The Engaging Exercises for Teams and Groups Manual
The 60 page manual, available in both Electronic and Binder Copy Editions, includes twenty-five participatory and engaging exercises to use with teams and groups during workshops or retreats. Many of these exercises can also be used for your participants in group coaching programs. Exercises include Values, My Vison, Partner Introductions, and Next Steps.
The manual is divided into five sections:
- an introductory section with information on group process, why activities are important;
- icebreakers and activities to start off sessions;
- exercises you can to use at any time;
- closure activities;
- and a comprehensive resource section.
The resource section includes a workshop planning checklist, a workshop planning matrix, a workshop design matrix and the workshop design template, along with many other resources.
Until November 15th you can order the electronic copy of the Engaging Exercises for Teams and Groups Manual and save 20%. Regularly priced at $24.95 USD/26.95 Canadian the special pricing is $19.95US or $21.50 Cdn. The manual will be sent to you via PDF file. Payments are accepted by Visa, and orders can be placed by sending an email to: jennifer@potentialsrealized.com or by calling us toll free at 1-866-217-1960. Faxed orders can be sent to 1-866-217-1960.
This is a perfect addition to your group program library. For more information please visit Group Coaching Essentials or the Potentials Realized website for an overview of the manual, or download an order form here.
Looking forward to hearing from you!
Jennifer
Jennifer Britton, CPCC, CHRP, CPT
Potentials Realized
www.groupcoachingessentials.com www.potentialsrealized.com
Toll Free: 1-866-217-1960
Phone: 416-491-9680
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
More resources for group work
I received a wonderful new book on games last week from ASTD (www.astd.org). I often speak to coaches about what a great resource ASTD is (as is CSTD - the Canadian Society for Training and Development). If you are looking for resources and information on learning and development, and working with teams and groups, ASTD is an organization you must connect with. The have fantastic chapters across the US that you can get involved with, as well as a strong international network. Their annual international conference (usually held in May/June) is chock full of information. They also hold an annual E-Learning Conference - TechKnowledge in the early part of the year. Their early bird registration deadline is coming up soon, so if E-learning is an area you want to start to play in and prehaps Las Vegas is a place you want to visit, you may want to consider attending the TechKnowledge conference. I attended back in 2003 and took away some amazing new knowledge and skills.
Steve Sugar and Jennifer Whitcomb have put out a great new book called Training Games which includes a lot of how tos, some exercises and a lot of information on how to select the right exercise or game for different groups. You can check it out further at ASTD's online store: http://store.astd.org. Special discounts apply for ASTD members (and if you aren't one yet, it's a great investment).
One of the topics I speak alot about is the skill sets needed by group coaches. As trained coaches to do 1-1 work we already bring a great toolkit and have many, many tools to use in group contexts. However, I do believe that anyone working with groups as a coach should also have a solid understanding in group development, group facilitation skills, and knowledge of adult and experiential education principles. If you are looking to add these skills and knowledge, or brush up on them, consider some of the programs and conferences held by ASTD.
On the topic of conferences, we are less than a month away from the ICF Conference in St. Louis (November 1-4). I am so looking forward to seeing so many friends and colleagues in person, many of whom I will finally be putting a face to a voice. Will you be there? I'd love to hear if you will be there and would love to connect in person!
Warmly,
Jennifer
Jennifer Britton, MES, CPT, CPCC, CHRP
Potentials Realized
http://www.groupcoachingessentials.com and www.potentialsrealized.com
Email: jennifer@potentialsrealized.com
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Amazing Resource for Group Activities and Exercises: Wilderdom.com
As a former outdoor and experiential educator myself, I was so pleased to come across this fantastic site which originates from James Neill in Australia. Thank you James for putting this amazing body of work together.
Enjoy checking out the site! I'll be back later this week with more on games, and a special offer on my Engaging Exercises for Teams and Groups Manual.
Jennifer
Jennifer Britton ~ Potentials Realized
Web: www.groupcoachingessentials.com and www.potentialsrealized.com
Email: jennifer@potentialsrealized.com
Toll Free: 1-866-217-1960
A few spaces still remain for the next Group Coaching Essentials program which starts next Tuesday October 3rd at 10:45 - 12 noon(EST). The dates for the program are: Oct. 3, 17, 24 and 31st (note a slight change to originally published dates as a client has booked me to run an all day retreat on the 10th).
You'll participate in 5 x 75 minute teleseminars on the HOW TOs for developing and marketing your group coaching programs. You'll also receive a 70 page manual, full of information, resources and links to support you in your program development, marketing and implementation. In addition, all participants can access me for 1-1 meetings throughout the course of the program at no extra charge. The cost for the program is $225 USD.
This program is hands-on and interactive - space is limited to 8 coaches. Click here for an overview of the program. Downloadable registration forms are available here. Please email or phone to reserve your spot. I look forward to serving you!
Monday, September 25, 2006
Exercises for Group Programs - The Importance of Closure
Jennifer Britton, CPCC, CHRP, CPT - Potentials Realized
Copyright 2006 - All Rights Reserved
Closure is an important part of any group program, even though it may be the first thing that is cut out when programs are running a little long. Effective closure activities can serve many purposes including, creating:
1. A framework for participants to identify:
- What they have learned from the program
- What they will take away in terms of learning, new perspectives/insights etc
- How they will apply their new learning into their daily life - at work or home
2. A forum for participants to create an action plan to reinforce the learning that they have undertaken during the course of the program. How will the participants be "bringing the learning home" to their real lives?
3. An opportunity to reflect upon the learning journey in the context of the program
4. An opportunity for celebration and to give thanks
What type of closure activities do you use in your programs? Is this the first thing that gets cut off when time is running short?
Here a couple of ideas for your next program:
1. Develop an action plan handout (or at the end of a participants notebook/manual) which has participants make commitments as to specific actions they are going to undertake.
2. Learning Partners - Have participants pair up with another/or two other participants to discuss their major learning throughout the program. Provide each group with two or three structured questions they can discuss. have them contact each other by email/phone/in person one month after the program to discusss how their learning has impacted their work/life. Get each group to contact you with a summary of the results. Allot sufficient time for each group to meet, get to know each other and design how and when they will reconnect.
3. Closure Circle - Have each participant share with the group the one most important learning point for them and how they are going to integrate this in their daily life and work.
4. Nature Walk and Closure - To add a creative twist, allow participants 5 - 10 minutes to do a silent walk in the surrounding environment (if venue permits) and have them select a piece of nature which they bring back into the program (i.e. stone/flower/leaf). Participants can close with a discussion of what they have chosen in the closure circle format. A neat thing about it is that participants can take this object home with them as a reminder of their learning and commitments.
I hope that you will try some of these out in your upcoming programs. If you do, I'd love to hear how it went.
Jennifer J. Britton - Potentials Realized (http://www.groupcoachingessentials.com and http://www.potentialsrealized.com)
Jennifer J. Britton has been faciltiating group programs (workshops, retreats and group coaching) since 1988. Her work with teams and groups has taken her around the world, and she has faciltiated programs in over 14 countries. Jennifer is the founder of Potentials Realized, a coaching, training and consulting firm, and works with corporate and group clients in the areas of teamwork, leadership and enhanced business results. She is the author of the Engaging Exercises for Teams and Groups Manual, and also a co-author of Starting Your Own Business - A Guide for Women in York Region.
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Tuesday, September 19, 2006
7 Success Strategies for Your Group Programs
There was a great turnout at an enriching and powerful day of learning, sharing and building community. The coaching community in Toronto continues to grow vibrantly (there were about 100 coaches at the one day event), and it was very encouraging how many coaches are considering expanding their skills into the area of group programs. I hope that I can act as a resource for you in your journey - through this blog, and also my individual and group programs.
If you weren't able to join me over the weekend in Toronto to hear about 7 Success Strategies for Your Group programs, I will be offering a call on this topic in the near future. Stay tuned!
In the meantime, I want to leave you with a question -- "If you knew that you would be amazingly successful - what group program would you offer right now?". I'd love to hear your comments...please post them!
Have an amazingly creative and rewarding week,
Jennifer
Jennifer Britton, CPCC, CHRP, CPT
Potentials Realized
Group Coaching Essentials Web: www.groupcoachingessentials.com
Potentials Realized Web: www.potentialsrealized.com
Toll Free: 1-866-217-1960
October's Group Coaching Essentials program starts on October 3rd - Tuesdays 10:45 - 12 noon (EST), meeting on October 3, 10, 17, 24 and for a follow-up call in November/December. Move your group coaching program vision into action!
Sunday, September 03, 2006
Exercises for Group Programs - Icebreakers
There are literally millions of icebreakers out there, in print and on the web. As I have asked in previous posts, what exercises do you have available at your disposal? Is it time to update some of your icebreaker activities? Spend some time adding to your list of exercises at your disposal.
As a group coach, introductory exercises (icebreakers) can be very powerful in starting to create the environment of trust between group coaching participants, while setting the stage for whatever topics the coaching revolves around (for example, work-life balance, values, business vision, career transition, leadership -- these are all areas I often run group coaching programs on). When you are looking at designing your next group coaching program, think about what exercises might be great at setting the stage for your work together.
In my next post, I'll share with you one of my favorite icebreakers from my toolkit, so stay tuned!
Jennifer
Jennifer Britton, MES, CPT, CPCC, CHRP
Potentials Realized
http://www.groupcoachingessentials.com
Toll Free: 1-866-217-1960
Have you checked out our upcoming programs for the fall? There is a wide variety of teleseminars, in person intensive programs, and virtual retreats that I will be offering over the coming months. I know that they would be useful in supporting you with your work with teams and groups. Check out our upcoming events listing at www.groupcoachingessentials.com/pages/upcoming-events and register. Spaces are limited for all programs, so reserve yours today!
Monday, August 28, 2006
Why are exercises important for group programs?
So, why are exercises important? The most important factor for me is that it provides the opportunity for participants to get involved, engaged and in charge of their learning. Think back to some of your worst learning experiences. I am sure that they probably entailed listening to a person lecture on and on, or prehaps a speaker who was over-passionate about following a Power Point presentation.
Exercises are the cornerstone of group coaching, as well as workshops or retreats. Exercises allow us to create a framework for our participants to:
- Explore major topics
- Deepen the learning
- Reflect on their experience, knowledge and feelings
- Make connections between what they already know
Exercises can set the tone for a program and play an important role in energizing a group or providing closure.
In following posts I will be talking more about exercises you can use to energize a group, provide closure and use to kick a program off.
Stay Tuned!
Jennifer ~ Potentials Realized
Web: www.groupcoachingessentials.com and www.potentialsrealized.com
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
The Power of Exercises
Over my next few blog posts I am going to be sharing some information and resources on exercises to use throughout a group program. As an experiential educator, exercises are the foundation of any program I run.
Reflect on what exercises you have available at your disposal. If you are a coach, what exercises do you currently use with your individual clients that could be translated into the group context? My guess is that you can come up with a list of at least 10 - 15 that could be modified for the group context.
To start filling your "back pocket" (what I call as those activities I always have in the back of my mind which I can pull out at any time" do a web-based search for terms such as "icebreaker", teambuilding exercises, group exercises. I often recommend to coaches and other group facilitators to start a file, or even a binder, with exercises they have come across that are interesting. You will never know when you can use them!
A note on copyright (a pet peeve of mine when it is infringed upon, as I discussed last week to a group of business students I was lecturing to on this subject). Make sure that you have copyright access/authorization to any materials you are using. Check what the author of the activty has said in terms of use, attribution etc.
Stay tuned, lots more to come on exercises...What's your biggest question regarding exercises? - I'd be happy to include it in a future blog post.
Cheers,
Jennifer
Jennifer Britton, CPT, CPCC, CHRP
Potentials Realized
Web: www.groupcoachingessentials.com - Group Coaching Essentials Website
www.potentialsrealized.com - Potentials Realized Website
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
Knowing Your Client
Whenever you are looking to develop a group coaching program, one of the primary considerations should be "What will these clients want?". This will influence everything from program design, to how and where it is delivered (venue/phone/in person), how you approach the marketing, what topics are covered etc.
In the training realm, we call this Needs Assessment, which according to most Instructional Designers should comprise about 15-20% of your total program time. How much time do you spend thinking about Knowing Your Client (TM) when developing a group program? What has the impact been when you really knew your client?
The Group Coaching Client Assessment (TM) is still available at no charge for coaches who want a structure to further define their group coaching client base. Feel free to email me at jennifer[at] potentialsrealized [dot] com to request your copy.
Jennifer Britton, MES, CPT, CPCC, CHRP
Potentials Realized
Web: http://www.groupcoachingessentials.com and www.potentialsrealized.com
Toll free: 1-866-217-1960
Friday, July 21, 2006
Podcast on Virtual Retreats now available
I have been running retreat programs for almost 18 years now, and my retreats have taken me around the world physically. My newest foray into the world of retreats is leading virtual retreats. I love facilitating virtual retreats as it allows me to connect with amazing individuals all around the world, without even leaving my home. As a mother with a 14 month old son, this is so important at the moment for me. What I have found is that many of the principles of an in-person retreat success are just as important for virtual retreats. I speak about this issue on the podcast, so if you can, please listen. You will definitely take away some golden nuggets for your own work.
If you are intrested in learning more tips and tools for retreat success, and want a quick booster shot, I will be running a 1.5 hour teleclass on Tips and Tools for Making Your Workshop or Retreat a Success! on Thursday August 3rd from 12 - 1:30 pm (EST). I hope that you will consider joining me. The cost of the teleclass is $59.95 USD and includes an electronic workbook. Space is limited to 12 participants.
Looking forward to hearing your thoughts on the podcast -- your comments are welcomed!
With best wishes,
Jennifer
Jennifer Britton, CPCC, CHRP, CPT
Potentials Realized
Web: http://www.groupcoachingessentials.com and http://www.potentialsrealized.com
Toll Free: 1-866-217-1960
Monday, July 17, 2006
Announcing the Launch of the Group Coaching Essentials Website
Over the past six months I have received wonderful feedback from clients and prospects, wanting more indepth information about the Group Coaching Essentials program. My core Potentials Realized site is chock full of information and I felt that Group Coaching Essentials deserved its' own site.
The new GEC site, which is linked to this blog, will contain the latest updates and information on courses, retreats, resources and other issues related to group coaching and group programs. I would welcome your feedback as to what works well and what else you would like to see be added.
For a quieter time of year, my summer programs continue to be widely attended - it seems that many coaches and trainers are making use of this slower time to develop their own programs. I am happy to be a part of their journey . Based on the success of the July 8th Creativity Virtual Retreat, I will be offering a second Creativity Virtual Retreat on Saturday July 29th from 11 - 4:30 pm (EST. We will meet every hour by phone for approximately 15-20 minutes, with the rest of the hour being dedicated to individual exercises related to your own program (workshop, retreat, group coaching). For more information about this program, please click here. Space is limited to 12 participants.
The August Group Coaching Essentials program will start on August 3rd on Thursdays from 10:45 - 12 noon (EST), meeting on August 3, 17, 24 and 31st. The course is limited to 8 coaches. For more information, on the GEC program, please click here to visit the new webpage with course information. Space is limited to 8 coaches.
Looking forward to hearing from you!
Jennifer
Jennifer Britton, CPCC, CHRP, CPT
Potentials Realized
http://www.groupcoachingessentials.com and http://www.potentialsrealized.com
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
Do you have a marketing plan?
I will ask profesionals - "Do you have a marketing plan?". Just as a business plan is an essential roadmap for our success, a marketing plan is also critical. How much do you have budgeted for marketing this year?
Many coaches use the summer months for planning, and I would encourage you to put some thought to how you want to market your programs and your general business this next year. How do you want to let people know about your offerings. Some possibilities include:
- World of mouth, referral
- Speaking engagements
- Website, Blogs, Podcasts
- Media Exposure
- Other ads - print, radio , tv
Each one of these has shown different rates of return - with ads and direct mail often showing the lowest rates of return.
If you haven't done so already, spend some time over the coming weeks mapping out your marketing strategy and costs. As you go through this exercise keep in mind who your clients are and what appeals to them (see my earlier post on Knowing Your Client).
You may want to develop a MindMap on this to get your creative juices flowing. Another simple structure is to develop a table in Word and list the marketing activities you will take, along with specifics regarding date, cost, description and outcome. Track your marketing efforts and see which ones are netting you the best results. What about it is so effective?
What is one thing that you could do each day to move your marketing efforts forward?
I know that there are lots of marketing questions out there, so please use the comment link and I will blog on these marketing questions in the future.
With best wishes,
Jennifer
Jennifer Britton - Potentials Realized
Web: http://www.potentialsrealized.com
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Golden Nuggets for YOUR Success
Entitled, "Golden Nuggets for Your Workshop Success" the article is also applicable to Group Coaching Success. In the article, I highlight five areas which I feel are very important for the success of any group programs, including:
- Know Your Audience
- Less is More (the 80/20 Rule)
- Have Clients Assess the Impact of your Program
- Consider your Marketing
- Notice Your Learning
Here's a link to the article: http://www.thecoaches.com/newsletter/Britton.html. Take a look - I hope that you will enjoy it.
What do you consider as the greatest success factors in your programs?
Jennifer
Jennifer Britton, MES, CPT, CPCC
Potentials Realized
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
What's your creative source?
Yesterday evening we had our second Group Coaching Essentials call for the month of June. A fantastic group of coaches, and last night we were focusing on tips, tools and templates to develop group coaching content. One of the exercises that we did on the phone was a short MindMapping exercise. Usually, I watch the time when we do this, however, last night, I also participated. And the process was incredibly powerful! I will be developing a large group coaching program for a leading global firm over the next while, and the few minutes that I spent with the other coaches on the line last nighthave given me a treasure-trove of ideas to weave into this program. I hope that you will try out some of the tips from my last blog on MindMapping. Let me know what results you get.
I realize in part, this spurt of creative energy is also in part due to a couple of things I am consciously creating in my work. Most importantly, two weeks ago, I retreated for a working holiday at our cabin north of Toronto. I call it a working holiday, becuase it really was like any other week - I had clients, ran programs, but I wantedto honor the time and come to that week from the perspective of holiday. Surrounded by the simplicity and silence of the woods and river, I always find that my creative source is at it's peak. What is your creative source?
On July 8th, I will be holding a Virtual Creativity Retreat Day for Coaches who are wanting to develop their own group coaching programs. The program will be held from 11 am-4 pm (EST) by phone, so that coaches can participate from whereever their creative source is (even if that is their office). These five hours will be a creative space for putting pen to paper, and breathing life into program ideas. Every hour we will be meeting by phone for a 5-10 minute group call, to connect and focus in on a different area of group coaching program development (e.g. exercises, content, marketing etc). We will then spend the rest of that hour individually retreating with our program ideas and creativity at our own location. I have used this process business owners in the past and it has always been an incredibly powerful experience.
If you are committed to dedicating space and time to moving your group coaching work forward, I hope that you will join me on Saturday July 8th. It is guaranteed to have powerful results for your group coaching work. Registrations are now being accepted, and the cost is only $97. Imagine what value you can create for yourself with the development of your own future programs in a short period of time. If you would like more information, please email me at jennifer@potentialsrealized.com. Registration forms can be found by clicking on the link found with this blog's title. I would be happy to answer any questions you have, so email me, or give me a call at 1-866-217-1960.
With best wishes for continued success in your group work,
Jennifer
Jennifer Britton
Potentials Realized
Web: www.potentialsrealized.com
Monday, May 29, 2006
MindMapping - A Creative Tool to add to your Toolbox
Here's an exercise for you to try. Take out a blak piece of paper and in the center draw a circle. In the center of the circle put the topic or name of a Group Coaching Program you are thinking to develop. For the next five minutes, write down evertying that comes to mind about this program, drawing one line extending out from the center of the circle (almost like rays of the sun) for each sub-topic (for example, exercises, content, marketing strategy, audience, venue etc). For each new idea in these sub-topics, create lines extending off of that line. So...here we go...you've got five minutes to create!
Welcome back! How was that? Whether I am using this tool with coaches who are creating their own program, clients who are wanting to get unstuck or clear on an issue, or even entrepreneurs who are wanting to create their business plan, I never cease to be amazed at the power of this tool.
You can MindMap freehand, or also put it on computer. MindJet has a great computer MindMapping tool and a free 21 day trial offer. You can visit them at www.mindjet.com. As you will see from their website the application of the tool is endless!
I'd enjoy hearing from you regarding your experience with MindMapping. What evolved? Any surprizes? What became clear? Click the comment link below and share your thoughts!
Happy MindMapping,
Jennifer
The next Group Coaching Essentials program starts next Monday at 6:45 pm (EST). If you are looking for new tools, templates, techniques and resources for your next Group Coaching program, then join me for our next teleseminar program. We'll be meeting on June 5, 12, 19 and 26th, plus one date in late July/early August for a follow-up call. Course size is limited to eight coaches to ensure individualized focus. To register contact me toll free at 1-866-217-1960 or by email.
Jennifer Britton
Potentials Realized
Email: jennifer@potentialsrealized.com
Web: www.potentialsrealized.com
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
The Impact of Fun and Time
Two lessons were underscored for me last week as I reflected on what exactly had made the program so powerful. Several comments came up time and time again across the organization in terms of what made the program so great.
First, the program was FUN and meaningful for each participant.Our morning was spent in activities related to both personal and organizational issues. Our afternoon was mostly dedicated to completely experiential activities focusing on communication, teamwork and leadership. We could have covered the same material in a number of different ways - case studies, lecturettes - but what staff indicated as being really powerful, was the opportunity to play, to discover for themselves through trial and error their own lessons. I have no doubt that this learning will "stick" and be used much longer than if we had used a less engaging approach.
Another approach I used with this program was to actually remove most of the structured timeline. The agenda reflected our start and end times, as well as break and lunch times, in addition to the broad topics we would be covering. This allowed us to spend more time on the issues that were most important and meaningful for staff, less time on those that didn't resonate as much, leaving the team with the overall sense of an easy pace throughout the day. Again, a majority of the staff commented on the easy flow of the day and just how fast the program had flown by. This was very important for the team and their learning process.
What can you do to inject more fun and time into your programs?
Jennifer
Potentials Realized
http://www.potentialsrealized.com
Our next Group Coaching Essentials teleseminar program begins on Monday June 5th from 6:45 - 8 pm (EST) (June 5, 12, 19 and 26th). Will you be able to join us?
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
Do You Evaluate?
There has been a lot written about evaluation of programs in the training realm, and several professionals such as Donald Kirkpatrick have led the way in providing us with frameworks to understand the importance of evaluation of programs. Kirkpatrick's Evaluating Training Programs: The Four Levels is an industry classic and standard.
I would be interested in finding out how many coaches actually evaluate the impact of their coaching programs, both in the short and long term, for both individual and group coaching programs. This issue is very much linked to the ongoing discussion within our professional community related to ROI (Return on Investment) and measuring the impact of our coaching interventions.
Evaluation is so important from many different perspectives. It initially allows us to know if we are on the mark, it can be useful in re-designing future programs or sessions to better meet the needs of our clients, and it can be a very useful marketing tool.
I'll be writing more in a future post about one of the quick mini-eval tools I use for my group coaching work. It only takes a few minutes, and gives me feedback immediately of what's working and what's not for my clients. That way, I can make changes as needed between our group coaching sessions.
So...do you evaluate? And, if so, how?
Jennifer Britton, MES, CPT, CPCC
Potentials Realized
http://www.potentialsrealized.com
Email: jennifer@potentialsrealized.com
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Next Group Coaching Essentials program starts Tuesday May 2nd
The course covers the fundamentals of group coaching - what it is, developing and implementing a program, marketing and selected exercises. We meet for 5 seventy five minute calls over a two month period, and you will also receive a comprehensive manual full of templates, tools and other resources to support you in designing and running your own group coaching program.
Since October 2004, I have supported over 100 coaches in developing their own retreats, workshops and group coaching programs.
The May course dates are May 2nd, 9th, 16 and 30th, and we will meet by phone from 10 - 11:15 am (EST). I am available between sessions for one-on-one work (included in the course pricing), and I also meet with each participant before and after the course for a 30 minute 1-1 call. Current course pricing is $225 USD or $260 Canadian, with payment accepted by cheque or Visa.
The course size is limited to 8 coaches to ensure individualized attention. To register or receive more information, please email me at jennifer@potentialsrealized.com or phone toll free 1-866-217-1960. More information on this program, and the sister program Training Esssentials for Coaches (to support coaches in workshop and retreat design and implementation) can be found at www.potentialsrealized.com/teles.htm.
I look forward to hearing from you!
Jennifer
Monday, April 17, 2006
Working and Coaching Across Cultures
During the training programs (I ran a two day program in English, and then followed it up with a two day program in French) I worked with about 56 individuals, representing probably 25 or more nationalities. As a former UN staff member myself, I have been accustomed to working across cultures for most of my professional career. What was very interesting for me was the applicablity and relevance of much of the coaching work I did with the supervisors, and aspiring supervisors, regarless of their "culture" or even the business cultures they work within. It is truly fascintating how coaching tools and techniques can cut across cultures.
I would like to hear from you, my readers, about your experience of working across cultures, and coaching across cultures. Please comment below. What has been your experience? Your celebrations? Your challenges? The greatest take-aways for your clients?
For those of you intreseted in more resouces for this area of intercultural coaching, there is an interesting book out that I read many years ago, Philippe Rosinski's Coaching Across Cultures: New Tools for Leveraging National, Corporate and Professional Differences. You may be interseted in checking it out.
Jennifer
Jennifer Britton, MES, CPT, CPCC
Potentials Realized
http://www.potentialsrealized.com
Tuesday, March 21, 2006
The 80/20 Rule
I often speak about the 80/20 rule when designing programs for groups. There is an innate tendency for coaches, trainers etc. to want to fit "everything" into their program. This can lead to overload for the participants, as well as a more directive programleaving little space for the participants to discover new information or insights or to try them on.
The 80/20 rule works like this - take a look at the overall information you want to cover during an upcoming program or session. What would happen if you took away 20% of the material? Would it leave more space for personal discovery? Less overload? More space for discussion and sharing?
My request for you is to carve up your upcoming program into the 20% you will put aside for another program, and the 80% you are going to keep. What happens? I'd be very interested in hearing about the outcome - send me an email to jennifer@potentialsrealized.com or use the comment link below. I will be publishing several responses for an upcoming e-book I have planned, and would be pleased to share your experience with the 80/20 rule (as well as your contact information).
I will be talking much more about the 80/20 rule, and putting it into practice with coaches who join me in Toronto on April 29-30th for the Group Coaching Essentials Intensive - a two day, hands-on skill building program, which will provide coaches with the opportunity to create their own group coaching program and its marketing. For more information, give me a call at 1-866-217-1960. An Early Bird discount of $100 is in effect until the beginning of April.
All the best for your continued success,
Jennifer Britton, MES, CPT, CPCC
Monday, March 13, 2006
The Power of a Take-Away
One of the many powerful tools we have as coaches is accountability. A take-away can be a reminder to our group coaching clinents of their commitments, their dreams, their vision. What take-away will you include in your next group coaching program?
I'd love to hear from you through the comment link below -- what's your favourite take-away?
Jennifer
jennifer@potentialsrealized.com
http://www.potentialsrealized.com
Thursday, March 02, 2006
Friday, February 24, 2006
What's the optimum size of a group coaching session?
In looking at your own programs and identifying the ideal group size, consider the following:
- What is your company and coaching philosophy?
- Is the program in person? By phone?
- How long is the program running - individual sessions, number of sessions?
- What are the goals of the program?
- What do your clients expect? What will benefit them most?
- What do you want clients to take away? To experience in your program?
- How have you priced the program? What is your financial bottom line?
Considering these questions will support you in coming up with your own optimum group coaching session size.
Wednesday, February 15, 2006
Group Coaching Essentials Program starts March 7th
Are you looking to develop or refine your own Group Coaching Programs? The next Group Coaching Essentials program will be starting on March 7th. This teleseminar program is held on Tuesday evenings from 7-8:15 pm (EST) on March 7, 21, 28 and April 11th.
This program is designed for coaches who want to expand their practice to include group coaching. The course covers the nuts and bolts of Group Coaching and will provide you with new tools and structures to create your own Group Coaching Programs. Topics include:
- The Essentials of Group Coaching - What is it? How does it differ from one-on-one coaching? Adult Learning Principles. Experiential Education. Best practices in group coaching
- The Nuts and Bolts of developing Your Group Coaching Program: How Tos, Templates, Techniques
- Marketing Your Group Coaching Program
- Filling Your Toolbox: Exercises and other resources for group coaching
The cost of the program is $225 USD and includes four 75 minute group calls, a follow-up group call, pre and post course 1-1 meetings with the course facilitator, and a comprehensive manual for your reference and use in group coaching programs.
Course size is limited to 8 coaches so please register early!
To find out more, or to register, please contact me, Jennifer at jennifer@potentialsrealized.com or call me toll free at 1-866-217-1960. Your own group coaching program will be ready to roll out by the spring. Think about that!
I look forward to hearing from you.
Jennifer
Potentials Realized: www.potentialsrealized.com
Friday, February 10, 2006
Tuesday, February 07, 2006
How To....Set Up A Teleseminar Bridge Line
I offer my group coaching programs both by phone and in person. Each has its advantages and disadvantages (more on this later). Over the past year, I've been focusing more of my time on phone based programs, particularly as I have an 8-month old son. I really love the diversity of phone based programs - having participants call in from all over the world and from so many different time zones.
There are a number of ways you can arrange for your own teleseminar bridge lines. Some are at cost, some free.
If you are a member of the ICF (International Coach Federation) one of the member benefits has been free bridgeline accessibility for a couple hours each month. You can also check out www.freeconference.com. I've been using FreeConference.com for the last two years and have never had a problem. It's a great service.
If you are looking to develop your own teleseminar or phone based group coaching program, and want some tips and tools to support you, along with an accountability structure, you will want to consider the Group Coaching Essentials program. This, and much, much more is covered during the one-month program. Later this week, I'll be posting some of the comments from the January coaches who just completed the program, along with the next course dates which start soon!
Sunday, January 15, 2006
Creating the Container for Group Coaching
I typically spend a few minutes at the start of any new group coaching program facilitating a process in which we create the terms by which we work together - starting and ending on time, confidentiality etc.
Each group tends to come up with their own unique terms for how they want to interact.
What are the ground rules you would like to put forth as a start? How are these terms - such as confidentiality, defined? How will the group define these terms? How do they relate to the ICF Code of Ethics?
Write down the ways of working you want to put forth in your next group coaching program, and make sure to create space in your first session to discuss them.
Group Coaching Client Assessment (TM) Template Now Available
The Group Coaching Client Assessment (TM) Template is now available from Potentials Realized. This template will support you in identifying the unique characteristics of the clients you serve to make your programs more effective, powerful and marketable. Separate Client Assessments can be completed for the different groups you serve.
This template is available free of charge for a limited time and can be obtained by emailing me, Jennifer, at jennifer@potentialsrealized.com. Please put Group Coaching Client Assessment (TM) Template in your email header.
The Group Coaching Client Assessment (TM) is just one of many tools you receive when you register for the Group Coaching Essentials (TM) program. Our next teleseminar series starts in mid-February. This one month program will support you in designing and developing your own group coaching programs. For more information, and to download a registration form, please visit www.potentialsrealized.com/teles.html.
There's lots more to come regarding Knowing Your Client -- so keep reading!
Tuesday, January 03, 2006
What's Your Intention for Group Coaching in 2006?
So, what's your intention for group coaching in 2006? What do you want to create? Have you chosen a topic to sink your teeth into (see the December 28th post)?
Here are some other questions to get you focusing in on your group coaching vision:
- Who is your audience? (More to come on Knowing Your Client)
- What type of group coaching program do you want to develop - in person, by phone?
- When will you launch the program?
- When will you offer the program?
- How many clients do you want to to serve this year through group coaching?
- How much revenue do you want to create from group coaching?
- Who can you partner with?
- What resources do you already have available?
- What additional resources do you need?
- How will you publicize your program?
- What marketing tools will you use? (More on marketing and publicity later)
If you haven't done so already, start a file or a set of notes on what your group coaching program will look like. Development of a new program or product happens step by step. Set aside several times a week to vision and create. You will be amazed at how quickly the foundation can be created!
If you want an additional boost, a few spaces still remain in this month's Group Coaching Essentials Telseminar program. We will be meeting on Tuesdays from 7-8:15 pm (EST) on Jan 10, 17, 24 and 31st. The course will equip you with tools, templates, resources and the space to create or refine your own group coaching program. Cost for the course is $225 USD, and also includes several one-on-one sessions. If you are interested in registering, don't hesitate to contact me by email or phone at 1-866-217-1960.