90 Day BizSuccess Group Coaching for Coaches starts this Thursday

Looking to focus on your coaching business this winter? Are you starting to grow your coaching business, or want to take it to the next level? Join me this Thursday January 24th at 2pm Eastern/11 am Pacific by phone for the launch of the Winter 2013 90 Day Biz Success Group Coaching program geared for coaches.  Benefit from a mix of group coaching, peer accountability and individual coaching calls. 

Over the course of 90 days (3 months) we will be exploring these rich topics, along with others you identify:

·         Business vision and your business values - What sets you apart as a coaching business?

·         Tapping into your unique strengths as a business owner

·         Creating your Annual plan for 2013 and longer-term business goals and milestones

·         Collaboration and Partnering - Creating a team around you

·         Essential systems for your coaching business - creating a foundation for success

·         Leveraging social media and more traditional mediums for building relationships, promotion and marketing

Registration includes:

•    7 x 1 hour group calls over the three months
•   Monthly 30 minute individual coaching calls with me (Valued at $300) 
•   36 biz tips delivered to your email box three times a week
•    Weekly module notes with exercises, and small business templates, you can adapt for your business

Space is limited to 4-6 coaches. Registration  is $497 (US or CDN) for the three month program, payable in two installments of $248.50 or three installments of $165, $165 and $166.

We will be holding our group calls on Thursdays from 2-3 pm Eastern/11 am - 12 noon Pacific on January 24, 31, Feb 21, March 7, 21, April 4 and 25, 2013. Monthly individual calls will be scheduled with you directly.

This program allows me to return to my own roots, as a former part-time Business faculty member I taught marketing and business planning and has worked with hundreds of entrepreneurs in the last 10 years. I was also contributor to the Women’s Guide to Starting Your Own Business in York Region (http://www.wpboard.ca/english/pdfs/Women%27s%20Guide%202009.pdf).

I hope that you will join me as I  return to my roots for this small group coaching program for coaches - new, emerging and those wanting to take their business to the next level.

Click here for more information and to register: http://bit.ly/9IQ4hf. Questions? Contact Jennifer by email at info@potentialsrealized.com or (416)996-8326.

For more tips to support you on your own business development check out the BizTips and business development tags here at the blog.

Best regards,

Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, PCC, CPCC

Author of Effective Group Coaching (Wiley, 2013)

Phone: (416)996-8326

Other upcoming programs include: the Group Coaching Essentials program (6.75 CCEs - starts Tues Feb 5 at 2 pm Eastern/New York and runs to early March), the Mentor Coaching Group (10 hours from Tues Feb 5 at 10 am Eastern until May 7, 2013 - ACC/ PCC portfolio and ACC Renewals), and the Group Coaching Intensive (Toronto - April 6-7: 15 CCEs - early bird rate on until Jan 31, 2013)

 

Top 10 Questions About Group Coaching During 2011

Top 10 Questions about Group Coaching During 2011

Copyright 2011 - Jennifer Britton, All Rights Reserved

It’s been really interesting for me to connect with so many coaches and other professionals looking at group coaching over 2011. Speaking engagements have seen me out in the Martimes of Canada (East Coast) and as far West as Banff. Last month I traveled to Philadelphia and presented at their Fall Conference. Throughout the year I’ve also presented virtually to many SIGs, special interest groups and other coaching schools.

A majority of my sessions/presentations have been interactive and it’s been really interesting to track some of the questions I’ve continually been asked this year. Here are 10 that really have hit my radar screen, as well as links to some resources I have, in case you too have the same question:

1. 1. What skills do I need to be great group coach? Remember that group coaching is an extension/specialization of the coaching profession. Great group coaches are skilled in the core coaching competencies, as well as experienced in group process issues. Practically this means getting out and working with groups. It’s like a muscle – if we don’t use it, we can lose the skills. What opportunities do you have/can you create to work with groups ?

2. 2. What do I need to understand about how groups work? This past summer I presented to Suzee Eibling’s Group Coaching SIG on Group Dynamics and Group Coaching. It was a blast! This topic is of real interest to both experienced and new coaches. For those who have a copy of my book, Effective Group Coaching, please check out Chapter 3 which goes into considerations for coaches regarding group development as well as learning styles.

3. 3. What’s the difference between team and group coaching? Many coaches, myself included, will probably find a natural progression and interplay between the team and group coaching work they find themselves working within. Both are sisters. What I cover throughout the Group Coaching Essentials program is highly transferable to the team coaching context.

Some of the key differences of course are the relationships which may exist as well as the role of leadership, and other team roles that may exist. Please check out some of the recent blog posts I have written this fall on Team Coaching and Team Coaching resources (click on the team coaching tab here at the blog).

4. 4. How do I price group coaching? I actually think this was the most popular question I was asked throughout the year. I cover it more in depth in the Group Coaching Essentials program. There is a huge range out there, which I feel is reflective of the diverse groups coaches are working with, and how they position group coaching in their business offerings. Some of the considerations you will want to think about of course is your contact time, group numbers, overhead (materials, insurance, venue etc).

5. Positioning Group Coaching In Organizations – A few weeks ago I spoke to the ICF Coaching and HRD SIG. I spoke a bit about positioning organizational group coaching. You can listen to the recording here. For those interested, you may want to become a member of this SIG. More info through the ICF’s SIG links.

6. 6. What exercises can I use? There are some terrific resources out there on the web these days. Most coaches will already have a selection of great coaching exercises that can be adapted for groups. We spend a week of the Group Coaching Essentials program looking at this topic, and you can check out the many blog posts I’ve written over the years on this (use the Exercises tab). This year I’ve also seen a resurgence in the number of coaches purchasing the Engaging Exercises E-Manual (one of the first products I created for my business in 2005). Also refer to the Appendix of the Effective Group Coaching book (40 pages of exercises there).

7. 7. From a business perspective, what do I need to have in place? The question of systems for your business and work is a very common and important question I get asked frequently. Please check out this post from 2010 as well as a more recent one on systems which can support you in making the work easier.

8. 8. How Should I market group coaching? A huge question! Consider your audience, your marketing strategy, your strengths. I’ll be working with coaches and trainers this Thursday December 22^nd during the Year End BizSuccess Business Planning Virtual Retreat (10-4pm ET) and a main focus of the day will be on planning for your business, as well as your marketing! A few spaces still open – click here for more info.

9. 9. How much can I fit into a group coaching session? I always remind coaches of the Less is More principle. Much of the benefit from a client’s perspective is the opportunity to connect and be in dialogue with others, and have time for space, focus and reflection. Often this means not trying to cram too much into a call or in person session, and thinking about what is a nice to have, rather than a need to have.

10. And probably the number one question – How can I build a successful business as a coach? I’ve heard this question for years throughout the 90 Day BizSuccess program, and during the early years of my business when I worked part time as a Business Faculty Lecturer. Building a coaching business is similar to other businesses – it takes time, focus and perseverance. I often remind coaches of the importance of the 1% rule – taking daily, or regular action, on important business goals. What are your business goals for the next year? Who is going to support you and hold you accountable as you move forward?

I look forward to continuing with the Coaching Business Builder series of posts here at the blog during 2012, as well as continuing to work with coaches individually on their own business development, as well as through programs like the Mentor Coaching Group and this week’s Year End BizSuccess Business Planning Virtual Retreat.

I’m eager to see where I’ll be connecting with coaches next year! If you are looking for a speaker for your group/association/conference on topics related to coaching, group coaching, leadership or business development, please contact me. I’d love to connect and learn more about your needs.

Questions – as always please feel free to reach me directly by email or phone (listed below).

Have a terrific holiday season!

Warm regards

Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, CPCC, PCC

Author of Effective Group Coaching (Wiley, 2010)

New programs start in early January 2012 - Group Coaching Essentials (6.75 CCEs - Jan 12th and 24th), Mentor Coaching Group (Jan 13th)

Email: info{at}potentialsrealized{dot}com

Phone : 416.996.8326

Systems Check Questions for Coaching Programs as You Get Back to Fall

With Labor Day just behind us, many coaches are "getting back to business". As I just wrote earlier

Getting Back to Business

today in my monthly Group Coaching newsletter, taking time to do a systems check around your business is key at this time of year.


In my latest publication, The Coaching Business Builder Workbook and Planner, I explore five different areas coaches will want to develop systems around in for their business. If you've picked up a copy of this analog planner and workbook at Amazon or the new CoachingBusinessBuilder.com website, check out pages 70-76.

Five of the key areas you will want to take stock around this fall are your systems related to:

1. Sales and marketing
2. Product and program services
3. Registration and client onboarding supports
4. Financial systems
5. Communication

In this month's newsletter I zoom into #3 - Registration and Client Onboarding support a little bit more. You can read the newsletter online here.

For this blog post, I thought it would be useful to explore a different area - Product and Program Services, which is more the focus of this blog. As you step into the month of September here are a number of questions for you to consider:

• What is the current mix of your coaching business? 
• In addition to individual coaching, what are the different products and services you offer?
• What is working?
• What feedback have you received? When did you last review it?
• What is in development?
• What do your clients say they want more of? Less of?
• What's not working as you have planned?
• What steps are you committed to undertaking, this month? By year end?
• Who can help you with this?

Product and program development projects often evolve into as much time as we want to give them. As an author I know how wonderful it would be, and how much I'd love to just carve out vast stretches of time to just write. Practically my business and client needs usually come first, requiring me to work around the margins of larger projects for my writing work. I've learned to find a rhythm of making this work for me, and the business, refining it with each project. I've also come to realize that the dynamic tension of practice and reflective writing is an important part of the writing I do.

As a former program manager and developer, and in the last 15 years of my business, the varying steps of the program design process have become more engrained in all aspects - from pre-program tasks, to design, delivery, evaluation and sustainability.

Key here is getting into action, and learning through the action and feedback each step creates. What feedback are you getting from your efforts?

For more on the Coaching Business Builder Workbook and Planner, check out the new site, including the related blog where you'll find more resources to support you in growing your coaching business.

Later this week, on Thursday September 6th from 11 - 11:30 am ET, I'll be hosting my fourth Virtual Book Club call related to the Coaching Business Builder Workbook and Planner. You are invited to drop in for this complimentary 30 minute call as I explore Habits and Mindsets for Back to Work and Back to Fall. The call will be held in zoom room 270-302-0415. Hope you can join us!

With best wishes,
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton
Potentials Realized
Group Coaching Essentials - All things group coaching
Effective Virtual Conversations.com - All things virtual
Coaching Business Builder.com- All things business related (for coaches)  
___________________________________________________________________________

 Fall programs are starting in the next couple of weeks including:

The Group Coaching Essentials program - my flagship 5 week virtual program which provides tips, tools and ideas for group (and team) coaching. Coaches are invited to apply their learning weekly around their own projects. The September group will be held on zoom on Fridays from 1015 - 11:30

am ET with calls held on September 7, 14, 21, 28 and October 5, 2018. 8.75 CCEs. This program is related to my 2010 book - Effective Group Coaching.

The Virtual Facilitation Essentials is geared for professionals who want to sharpen and build on their virtual facilitation skills to host more engaging and effective virtual sessions - coaching groups, webinars, even conference calls! 5 weeks, now approved for 8.5 CCEs. This program is related to my 2017 book - Effective Virtual Conversations. Group calls will start Friday September 14th from 11:45 - 1 pm ET with calls September 14, 21, 28, October 5 and 12, 2018.

Mentor Coaching Groups for ACC/PCC - Two groups will start this month - 10 hours meeting the ICF requirments for ACC/PCC. Geared to support coaches in sharpening their skills and deepening their underastanding of the ICF competencies.
Group A - Fridays 9 - 10 am ET: September 14 - December 14 (meeting 2nd and 4th weeks of month)
Group B - Tuesdays 4 - 5 pm ET September 18 - mid-December with group calls being held September 18, 25, October 1, 15, December 18 plus 2 other calls.

The Coaching Biz Growth Lab - Meets on Fridays from 3 - 4 pm ET the 1st and 3rd weeks of the month this coaching group focuses on supporting coaches around their business development. Join us monthly or for the quarter. More info and registration here.

Upcoming June Programs: Group Coaching, Mentor Coaching, Biz Building

June is always a popular month for coaches to get focused on their own business development and plans for late summer and fall group programs (group coaching, workshops, retreats, teleseminars). Here's what's on tap this month:

Group Program Virtual Retreat - Friday June 3 and 10 (1-4 pm Eastern/New York both days): Geared for professionals who want to focus and take action on the planning, design and marketing of an upcoming group program (workshop/retreat/teleseminar/group coaching). The retreat includes 6 hours of structured individual exercises, a manual and access to me throughout the course of the program. We'll be meeting for 15 minutes of each hour as a group, with each hour focusing on a different component of your group program success! Exercises and support focus on program design, marketing and exercises so that you've got a skeleton by the end of our time together. The program will be offered again on Tuesday July 26th (10-4 pm Eastern).
Cost: $175 US or CDN.

for more info or to register for the Group Program Virtual Retreat

Summer BizSuccess Virtual Retreat - Friday June 17 and 24 (1:30 - 4:30 pm Eastern/NY)
Geared for business owners eager to create the space and focus to plan, and take action on key business goals and activities. The BizSuccess Virtual Retreat is especially geared for coaches, trainers and other service based professionals who want to look at, AND ACTION on, their core business components such as their business vision, goals and marketing strategies. The program includes 6 hours of structured exercises, a manual which includes related business templates as well as the opportunity to meet during the program with me. Cost: $175 US or CDN (plus HST). Click here for more info or to register.

Mentor Coaching Group (including ACC Renewals) June 24 - September 30, 2011
Starting June 24th (Fridays 11 - 12 noon Eastern) I will be offering a special mentor coaching program which meets the requirements of the ICF for ACC renewal for mentor coaching. Coaches will participate in 7x 1 hour group calls over the 3 month period, and will undertake 3 x 1 hour individual mentor coaching calls with me. Each call looks at a different ICF core coaching competency. Coaches will have the opportunity to practice and receive feedback on their coaching skills. Each lesson will also be accompanied by a coaching tool or template I use in my business, along with a business tip to support your own business development. The program meets the 10 hour requirement of mentor coaching for ICF re-certification. Another group will start in early August - contact us for more details (runs August - November)
Click here for more info and to register.

and of course, our programs geared specifically to Group Coaching include:

The Group Coaching Essentials program (Accredited by ICF for 6.75 CCEs):
Summer Accelerated Program starts June 9th (Tues and Thurs: June 9, 14, 16, 21 and 23, 2011
July 2011:Wednesdays 10:30 -11:45 am Eastern/New York/Toronto:July 13, 20, 27, August 3, and 10, 2011
August 2011:Thursdays 10:30 - 11:45 am Eastern: August 4, 11, 18, 25 and September 1, 2011
Each month I work with a small group of coaches (maximum 6-8) in the Group Coaching Essentials program. The program covers tools, exercises and resources to support coaches with the design, marketing and implementation of their own group coaching programs. We look at both in person and virtual (web and phone) based programs, as well as tips for groups from the general public and organizations. The program includes 5 x 75 minute calls, access to lazer/laser(15 minute) 1-1 calls with me (at no additional cost), and an 80 page manual (delivered in weekly modules). Benefit from the accountability and structure of the program to get your own group coaching program going!Price: $325 US or Canadian (plus HST). Note pricing will increase in September to $375 US or $375 CDN (including HST)
Click here for more info and to register for the Group Coaching Essentials program.

Group Coaching Intensive (In Person Training, 15 hours)July 14-15, 2011: Huntsville, Ontario (Muskoka) and October 2011 - TorontoThis two day in-person group coaching training program focuses on providing coaches with both knowledge and content as well as practice, and feedback, on their group coaching skills. The course covers core group coaching skills, along with practical tips and tools for designing, running and marketing your own programs. Both new and experienced coaches can benefit from this program, as can alumni of the Group Coaching Essentials program. Participants will leave the program with tools, resources, skills and practice in group coaching.
The program includes:
* 15 hours of instruction and contact in an in-person envrionment (our April program was accredited for 15 hours of CCES with the ICF - 13 hrs Core Competencies, 2 hrs Business Development)
* The Group Coaching Intensive Manual
* A Group Coaching Toolbox (yes! your own physical toolbox of program tools and resources)
* A copy of the Effective Group Coaching book
* A follow up call with Jenn and the group in August/September (time to be determined by group)
Price: $950 CDN plus HST
Click here for more info or to register

I look forward to having you join me in an upcoming program! Feel free to contact me with any questions you may have.

Warm regards
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, PCC, CPCC
Group Coaching Essentials

90 Day BizSuccess Group Coaching Program starts October 17

I am receiving a lot of interest from coaches, trainers and other service based business owners for a business development group coaching program I have been offering since late 2006. Entitled the 90 Day BizSuccess Program this program is designed for new and experienced business owners who are looking for a supportive, action-oriented group coaching program to intentionally focus on their business development.

This 3 month program includes:

• 7x 1 hour group coaching calls with a maximum of 8 participants (Fridays from 11 - 12 noon Eastern, 8-9am Pacific) over a 3 month period
• Bi-weekly modules delivered full of tools, resources and exercises to grow your business
• 36 E-Biz Tips delivered to your mailbox 3 times a week for the program length
• 15 minute lazer coaching 1-1 session with me on a monthly basis at no extra cost!

During the three months of the program you will:

• Create Your Business RoadMap: Develop or refine your business vision
• Explore your unique strengths and abilities as a business person, identifying areas for leverage and competitive advantage
• Get clear on your niche (or niches) - Who are your clients? Who do you serve?
• Identify what unique products and services you offer and how this sets you apart from other providers
• Explore Your Web: Identify opportunities for collaboration and partnerships with other business owners and service providers
• Develop your marketing strategy and budget
• Investigate how your business can leverage technology and social media to build their client base and increase sales through an introduction to blogs, podcasts and other platforms
• Develop a concrete business action plan for the next year
• One session will be dedicated to additional topics that matter most to participants

Cost: $347 for the 3 month program.

There are still 4 spaces remaining in the program. To register and reserve your spot you can visit us online or contact me directly by email/phone at jennifer(AT)potentialsrealized(dot)com/ 1-866-217-1960 (toll free across N.America). Curious about how the program may benefit you? Please give me a call.

If you haven't seen this side of my work yet -- please check out some of the business coaching work I've done over the years - including developing the publication "Starting Your Own Business - A Guide for Women in York Region" (2006) and the Succession Planning Webinar Series early this year.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Warm wishes,

Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, PCC, CPCC

Group Coaching Essentials

Upcoming January 2008 Programs

I have a number of program offerings this month designed to kick start your year. I hope that you will consider joining me for one of the following this month:

Programs Related to Workshops, Retreats and Group Program Design and Facilitation:

Workshop and Retreat Essentials – Mondays 8-9:15 pm (EST), Monday January 7, 14, 21, 28, plus a fifth call March. Cost $250 US
This program includes a treasurechest of tools, tips and resources to support you in your workshop or retreat development. I also cover essential tips to developing your own virtual retreats. Five sessions, and pre and post-course 1-1s with me, along with a 90 page manual.

Group Coaching Essentials – Wednesdays 8-9:15 pm (EST), January 9, 16, 23, 30, plus a fifth call in March. Cost $250 US
The ever popular Group Coaching Essentials program will be offered again this month. If you are a coach wanting to offer group coaching to your clients this program is for you. Full of tips, tools, exercises and other resources, you will leave the program with your own group coaching program design. Space is limited to 6. You also have pre and post course 1-1s with me, and a 90 page manual.

Tips and Tools for Your Workshop or Retreat – Friday February 1, 2008, 12 – 1:30 pm (EST). Cost: $45 US
For those wanting a booster shot of tips and tools, this program covers 10 essential tips for your group programs, ranging from development tips, to marketing and implementation solutions. You also receive the Tips and Tools Workbook as part of this program (also sold separately).

Engaging Exercises for Teams and Groups – Tuesday February 5, 2008, 6:30 – 8pm (EST). Cost $59 US (includes an electronic copy of the Engaging Exercises for Teams and Groups Manual).
Looking for some exercises to spice up your next workshop, retreat or group coaching program? This 1.5 hour teleseminar is for you. Bring all your questions about exercises and have them answered, and leave with a bulging new exercise toolkit.

Business Development Programs for Small Business Owners:

Biz Success Virtual Business Planning Retreat
6 hours of structured focus on your business planning and growth. This retreat is held virtually by phone and each hour of the program involves group activity (10 – 15 minutes) with the remaining part of the hour. 3 different sessions are offered this month to ensure your business starts off great for 2008! Take your pick from:
BVR-081: Saturday January 5 (10 - 4pm EST)
BVR -082: Sunday January 13 (10 - 4pm EST)
BVR-083: Thursday January 17 and 24 (7-1opm EST both evenings)
Your investment: $150 US (includes the Biz Retreat, a group follow up call, and the Biz Success Planning Manual)

90 Day Biz Success Program – Fridays 12 – 1 pm (EST), Starts January 11
A small group coaching program for new and experienced business owners who want to amp up their business results. The program includes 7 group calls on topics including business vision, leveraging technology for your business, Essential Business Systems and developing your Business Roadmap. You also receive 36 e-biz tips by email and have pre-and-post program 1-1s with me. Space is limited to 6. $297 for the program.

General Interest:
Women on Fire Group Coaching - Tuesdays from 8-9pm (EST) from January 15 - March 4, 2008

If you don’t feed the fire, it will go out. Where do you need to fan the flames?
Imagine if you could sit around a roaring bonfire every week for 7 weeks with a community of women who are looking to create more spark in their lives, sharing stories, gaining insights and tools, and supporting each other to step up to a more passionate and intrinsically fulfilling life. Join Sharon Miller, PCC and I as we create a virtual campfire, enabling you to ignite, explore, rediscover, and focus on creating a life on fire! (Space is limited to 8). Cost: $300 US or Canadian.

Download a program registration form here for all our Winter Programs here. Registrations are accepted by phone, fax and email. Payment options: PayPal, Visa (by phone), personal check.

You can reserve your spot at any time by calling toll free (across North America): 1-866-217-1960 or by emailing me at jennifer@potentialsrealized.com.

And coming soon -
The announcement of the May 2 and 3, 2008 Group Program Intensive in Toronto. Two days of information rich, skills based activities to support you in your group program design and facilitation. Information packages will be available early next week with an early bird discount in effect to March 1, 2008.

Have a wonderful month,
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, PCC, CHRP
Potentials Realized
Group Coaching Essentials
Toll Free: 1-866-217-1960

Four Years, Four Business Lessons

I'm borrowing from my BizToolkit blog today, as I've had some great emails from readers on this post and wanted to share with you four of my most important business lessons from the last 4 years. I hope that these will give those of you who run your own business some food for thought, as well as some business coaching questions.

I’ve intentionally built some time in over the last few days to reflect on where we’ve been and what some of our goals are for the future. As a business coach, I love doing this work with my clients, and it’s been great to walk my talk and use my own tools for my business.I’ve also boiled down four of the lessons that have served me best during my first 4 years in business.

Business Lesson #1: Be clear on what you want as well as what fuels and passions you
Keeping clear about what I love and want to create has been quite instrumental in building a business and a model which enables me to enjoy the best of the city during the winter, as well as the best of Muskoka during the summer. My time up north renews me on an annual basis, providing the opportunity for more strategic thinking and program/product development.

Coaching Questions: What do you want to create in your business? What's going to give you energy? What can't you live without?

Business Lesson #2: Don’t be afraid to create your own path
When I first started coaching four plus years ago, one of the only models available was one-on-one coaching. From the start of my business I was eager to create and design coaching experiences for groups. I've loved being a pioneer in an emerging area of the coaching profession - group coaching. Rather than feeling like a renegade I created my own path. You can read more about group coaching over at my Group Coaching Ins and Outs blog.

Coaching Questions: What's your path? What unique contribution can you make as a business owner? What's the unique path of your business?

Business Lesson #3: Persevere
Strategic perseverance has played an important role in growing my business. If it didn't work, I asked why? If it didn't work, I tried again and refocused. If that didn't work, I tried again.
Most of us know the stats on marketing -- it may take 7-11 times for a consumer to purchase, so why do so many business owners give up after the first try?
Coaching Questions: Where do you need to persevere? What needs to be refocused?

Business Lesson #4: Learn from all experiences, the good and the bad
And finally -- reflection and learning has also played a key role. Whether it's been a great experience or one that's not been so great, identifying the learning and applying in the next step has been critical.
Coaching Questions: What can you learn from your most recent success? What can you learn from your most recent failure?

Some interesting facts:The US Small Business Association states that only 2/3 of small businesses survive after their first 2 years in business and less than half make it to 4. WOW!

What have been some of the lessons which have served you best in growing your own business?
In closing, I want to thank all of you who have supported myself and Potentials Realized as we've grown. I look forward to many more years of serving you -- and if we haven't had the opportunity to meet - I'd love to connect to see how we might synergize.

Have a fantastic week,
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, PCC, CPCC, CPT
Potentials Realized
Group Coaching Essentials
Toll free: 1-866-217-1960

This Month's Program Line-up: Group Coaching and Business Development

With spring just around the corner, it's a popular time to launch your own group coaching program or retreat. Group coaching programs an appealing alternative for individuals and businesses alike, as virtual offerings -- lower cost and lower carbon footprint.

Here's our program line up for the next month:

Group Coaching Essentials: This program is designed for coaches who want to expand their work to the group coaching environment. The program is a resource-rich, interactive program focusing in on the design, marketing and implementation of your own group coaching program. Packed with tips, tools and templates to make your process easier, this program includes 5 calls, 1-1 lazer sessions with Jennifer, and an 80 page manual. Space is limited to 6-8 coaches as it is a hands-on, interactive program.

Two new sessions starting soon. Choose from either:
Tuesdays from 12 - 1:15 pm (Eastern): March 24, 31, April 7 and 14 2009 plus a 5th call in May (date to be set by group)
OR Mondays from 7-8:15 pm (Eastern): April 6, 20, 27 and May 4 plus a fifth call in early June 2009 (date to be set by group)

Click here to register and reserve your spot.


90 Day BizSuccess Program:
Ready to focus in on your business and take it to the next level? The 90 Day BizSuccess Program will provide you with new tools and ideas for your business, as well as dozens of business development exercises, tips and templates. The program will provide you with 3 months of accountability and focus on growing your business, all within the structure of a group coaching program. Join other coaches, trainers and small business owners as we focus in on you and your growth!

Topics covered include:

• Developing a Powerful Vision for Your Buinsess;
• Creating Your Business RoadMap;
• Identifying What Makes You Uniquely Powerful as a Business Owner;
• Identifying Your Niche and Clients;
• Expanding Your Web and Networks;
• Leveraging Tradition and Social Marketing Approaches

Jennifer brings the best of her tried and tested small business toolkit which she once shared as a Business Faculty Member working with business students.

The next program will start on April 7th on Tuesdays from 10:30 -11:45 am (ET)
Group Calls held on:
April 7, 21, May 5, 19, June 2, 16, 31. Celebration call scheduled by group later in the summer.
Cost: $347 US. Click here to register.

Workshop and Retreat Essentials: The program that started it all, celebrates it's 5th birthday in April. If you are a coach looking to expand your work into workshops or retreats this program will support you in designing, marketing and implementing your own workhsop or retreat. The program will also cover the popular virtual retreat design.
Fridays 10:30 - 11:45 am(EST): April 24, May 1, 8 and 15 plus 5th call in June (set by Group)

Questions? Please feel free to drop me a line at info{at}potentialsrealized{dot}com.

Warmly
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, PCC, CPCC
Group Coaching Essentials
Potentials Realized
Mobile: (416) 996-TEAM (8326) Toll Free: 1-866-217-1960

Essential Coaching Questions - Fall and Q 4

Several years ago I ran a series here at the Group Coaching Ins and Outs blog entitled "Six Coaching

Questions" where I did a series of posts on potential coaching questions you might incorporate into the coaching conversation when working with:
Goals
Action
Awareness
Accountability

You can read those posts here.

 As I wrote in From One to Many: Best Practices for Team and Group Coaching "Questions form the backbone to the coaching conversation).

Tomorrow, Thursday September 20th, I'm hosting the first of three separate fall business planning virtual retreats. Fall officially arrives on Friday/Saturday, and it's a great opportunity to pause, and take stock of where you are at.

Given the popularity of the past questions series, I thought that it would be useful to share with you a series of questions you can incorporate into your own work with clients, or  your own business, as you step into fall.

Here are some of the questions I have been asking my clients this week:
As you reflect back on the last quarter/summer:

1.  What has worked? What hasn't?
2. What's been your greatest success?
3. What's been your greatest learning?
4. How is your work/business different today, than it was on June 20th?
5. What habits have helped you? hindered you?
6. What relationships have been critical for success?

As you look ahead to the fall (or spring if you are in the Southern Hemisphere) or Q4:
1. What are your top 3-5 priorities?
2. What will "wild success" look like at the end of the year around these priorities?
3. What do you need to say "no to" in order to focus?
4. What resources and partnerships will help you with these priorties?
5. What strengths can you lean into?
6. What blindspots do you want to avoid?
7.  What milestones do you want to plan (and schedule) to check in around your progress?

I hope that these are useful questions for you, and your clients. They can be useful journaling questions, peer partner questions, or incorporated into any quarterly check-in meetings you facilitate.

I'm hosting three separate fall virtual business planning retreats in the next few weeks and am looking forward to them. They are at 3 separate times to try and catch a variety of time zones. We'll be using my latest book - The Coaching Business Builder Workbook and Planner as a foundation - but if you don't have a copy yet, and it won't arrive in time, I'll set you up with the pages you need.

Cost for this 4 hour virtual program $97 US.

We meet the first 10 - 15 minutes of every hour online and then you'll have activities to undertake for
the rest of each hour.

During the program you'll take stock of your past quarters successes, do some planning for the quarter ahead, set some marketing goals and GET THINGS DONE - take some action on one of your projects.

I'm offering three separate time zones -  you can register for the one that's most convenient:
Thursday September 20 - 1 - 5 pm ET
Saturday September 22 - 10 - 2 pm Eastern
Wednesday September 26 - 12- 4 p ET

Check out this business development program and other offerings at the Upcoming Events page at the new Coaching Business Builder site. These are separate from the GroupCoachingEssentials.com offerings but in the coming months you should see more integration of registration options.

Can't find the link to register? Email me directly at info@potentialsrealized.com, and I'll send you a direct invoice.

If you are on Instagram, I hope that you'll follow along with the regular posts and videos I am doing at https://www.instagram.com/coachingbizbuilder (specific to Coaching Business Development) as well as https://www.instagram.com/jenn.britton (focus on the wider coaching and leadership conversation).

Let us know how you enjoy using the 12 questions I've included here!

Best wishes,
Jennifer

With best wishes,
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton
Potentials Realized | /GroupCoachingEssentials
Email: info@potentialsrealized.com
Phone: 416-996-8326
Group Coaching Essentials - All things group coaching
Effective Virtual Conversations.com - All things virtual
Coaching Business Builder.com- All things business related (for coaches)  

Business Booster Shot - Systems for Group Programs and Business

many of you may know that for several years was a part time Business Studies Faculty member and lectured on small business topics including marketing, business planning, business development and others. I continue to assert that coaches need to pay attention to the business side of their work, and hence the new addition of this regular column - the Business Booster Shot, to support those of you who are in business for yourself.

Whether you work for yourself, or someone else, the concept of having systems in place will enable you to leverage your time and resources. Here's an adapted excerpt from my book on Systems:

Systems are streamlined processes which will allow you to replicate core pieces of your business. Systems will also help to institutionalize knowledge and allow others to take on activities as your own work expands. Once in place, systems should be updated on a regular basis (quarterly or annually).

As a group program facilitator and solopreneur, it is important to look at systems on two levels:
1. Systems for group programs
2. Systems for your business

Business systems can help you to leverage your time and resouces, while supporting your business growth, productivity and efficiency. Systems for group coaching will make your program work that much more streamlined and easier to have multiple groups on the go at any one time.

In general there are certain areas where business systems may provide support for you in the short and long term including:

- Sales and Marketing
- Clients
- Invoicing
- Registration systems
- Telephone/Web - bridgeline/webinar platform, and long distance packages
- Program Design Systems

Questions to consider:
What business systems do you currently have in place?

What new systems would boost your efficiency?

What would make your work easier and have more impact?
(Adpated from Effective Group Coaching, Britton, pp 189)

Warm regards,

Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, PCC

Group Coaching Essentials

PS - The 90 Days BizSuccess program provides support for business owners who want more success within their businesses. This spring and summer, I will be continuing to tailor programs for service based professionals such as coaches, trainers and other independent professionals. Our next program starts on Wednesday April 21st at 2 pm ET

10 Program Design Tools for Coaches - Day 5 of the Countdown to 2020

Welcome back to Day 5 of the 2020 Countdown. For many years now I have provided a year-end

series and I hope that you are enjoying this year's!

This year we are taking a deeper dive into tools, resources and approaches for group coaching processes.

Today's post zooms into 10 Program Design Tools you'll want to consider as you pull together pre-work, session materials and follow up. Keep in mind, depending on the type of group or team conversation you are having, you may not need to bring anything more than questions! The more we get into more on-demand programming (i.e. video-based courses, the more we will find ourselves in the realm of needing these tools). In a pure coaching process, they may be more supplementary than anything else.

Here are 10 you may want to explore to see how they can support your programming in this upcoming year:

#1 - Canva - Creating a brand around your program is a key part of program design. What are the colors you want to use? What are the adjectives which describe your program? For those more graphic design inclined, you may choose to turn to canva for some of your branding work, and also social media posts.  We'll be exploring BRAND in greater depth in the 60 Day Coaching Business Builder Accelerator which starts on January 1st! I hope you'll join us!

#2 - Unsplash - Visuals are powerful. Whether you are creating your own visual deck (like our newest member of the Conversation Sparker family - the Journaling Conversation Sparker), or you are incorporating images into your slides, you'll want to make sure you have a set of photographs that are commercially allowable, and impactful. Unsplash is a wonderful portal where photographers share some of their best work. Check it out.

#3 - MindMaps - Since before I started my business in 2004 I have been using MindMaps as a design tool. I believe I first encountered them years ago in 2000 at an  ASTD TechKnowledge Conference in the early days of e-learning. MindMaps help us capture all our ideas in one space. Be sure to date them and don't overwrite! Create a new version with a new date rather than delete. You never know what magic you'll uncover when you look at it again. MindMapping can be as simple as a handwritten version, or as sophisticated as one using COGGLE - one of the apps I've started using this fall for my own program design.

#4 - Trello - For all stages of design Trello is a great tool. From laying things out to compartmentalizing content, explore what is has to offer to you and your clients.

#5 - Designers - Fiverr, Upwork, 99 Designs - We likely will need to turn to a professional designer at some stage. Whether we want a customized Slide Deck, someone to make our work look nicer, or simply someone who can help us check certain items off the list, check out these websites for freelancers who can help you.

#6 - Loom - Want a personalized video to welcome people? Want to do a walkthrough of your site. Just as I've done with this short video talking about the Coaching Biz Growth Lab (an annual group focused on business development which I offer for coaches)  Loom provides a quick and fast way to create a specialized video message.

#7 - Zoom - Most coaches are probably well versed with the basics of zoom if you are working in the virtual space. I love taking a deeper dive in the Virtual Facilitation Essentials program around creating engaging and interactive virtual conversations. That program starts again in January and is being renewed for 8.5CCES, based on my 2017 book, Effective Virtual Conversations.  As a business, we have used zoom as our platform now for 5-6 years. I couldn't run my business without it!

#8 - An online learning platform - Whether you use Kujabi, Teachable or Thinkific, having your own private online learning platform can systematize materials for people to access. For years I've had many programs over at Teachable, including the Learning Lab and Design Studio, an annual group I host around group and team program issues. The nice thing about it is how it grows with time.

#9 - Mighty Networks - Early this year I shifted our online community over to Mighty Networks and started the Conversation Sparker Zone. It includes a public community space for people who are interested in connecting around coaching, business development, virtual conversations AND I also am able to use it as a private discussion channel for many of the groups I work with throughout the year (you won't see these). I hope you'll join us there for discussion and dialogue!

#10 - Dropbox - From file sharing with collaborators to housing call recordings, dropbox can be an important extension of your business.

What are the elements you would like to add to your toolkit for the new year? What action could you take today to add on ONE thing to your toolkit to set your work, and groups, up for success next year?

Enjoy the exploration! We'll be taking a deeper look at many of these design tools in the 60 Day Coaching Business Builder Accelerator as we spend several weeks on helping you design out, or tweak, your offerings. We kick off on January 1st for 60 days of action. Early bird rate in effect until Monday December 23rd. Click on over now and reserve your spot (1, 2 and 3 installment payments available).

Thanks for joining us for this Countdown to 2020 tip! Share with us one of your favorite resources over at the Conversation Sparker Zone.

Best wishes,
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton - GroupCoachingEssentials | Potentials Realized
Author of Effective Group Coaching (2010), Coaching Business Builder (2018), Effective Virtual Conversations (2017) and From One to Many: Best Practices for Team and Group Coaching (2013). Check out my author page on Amazon for all publications.
Email: info@potentialsrealized.com

If you are looking for  coaching skills development through CCE approved programs - I’ll be kicking off the first Group CoachingEssentials CCE approved program on Friday January 10^th at 1015 am ET. This 8.75 CCE program also includes weekly 1-1 time with me (15 min each week). Is 2020 your year to get your groups going or expand the number of groups you are doing? Whether you are new to group coaching or stepping into your next year, there’s always something to learn – I hope you’ll join us. Reserve your spot here.
Also starting in January are two groups of the Virtual Facilitation Essentials - a Friday group and a Monday group. If you want to see many of these tools in practice, and get experience in using them. Consider joining us for this virtual train-the-trainer OR reserve your spot for the 60Day Accelerator.