How to Become a Workplace Coach: The Fundamentals Course Syllabus

Overview: This practical, hands-on course is designed for managers and team leaders looking to develop foundational coaching skills that drive performance and engagement. Over approximately 5 hours of focused learning, you'll explore proven coaching models like GROW and SBI, practice active listening and powerful questioning, and learn how to integrate coaching into everyday management. Each module combines concise theory with real-world role-plays and actionable techniques to build confidence and competence. The course concludes with guidance on sustaining a coaching culture and measuring impact, ensuring long-term success.

Module 1: Foundations of Managerial Coaching

Estimated time: 0.5 hours

• Defining coaching and how it differs from managing and mentoring
• Understanding when to use coaching vs. feedback
• Benefits of a coaching approach for team performance
• Building the case for coaching in your workplace

Module 2: The GROW Coaching Model

Estimated time: 0.75 hours

• Setting clear, measurable goals (Goal)
• Exploring current reality with empathy and curiosity (Reality)
• Brainstorming options for moving forward (Options)
• Securing commitment and next steps (Will)

Module 3: Active Listening & Powerful Questions

Estimated time: 1 hour

• Practicing reflective listening and summarizing
• Using silence effectively in coaching conversations
• Asking open-ended questions to deepen self-awareness
• Building trust through focused attention and presence

Module 4: Feedback That Fuels Growth

Estimated time: 0.75 hours

• Delivering behavior-focused feedback using SBI (Situation–Behavior–Impact)
• Providing balanced feedback that motivates change
• Handling defensiveness and resistance constructively
• Cultivating a learning mindset in coachees

Module 5: Coaching in Practice

Estimated time: 1 hour

• Preparing effectively for one-on-one coaching sessions
• Structuring conversations using the GROW model
• Conducting role-play exercises to build confidence
• Creating actionable development plans with accountability

Module 6: Adapting Your Coaching Style

Estimated time: 0.75 hours

• Recognizing coachee readiness and development level
• Adjusting between directive and non-directive approaches
• Managing challenging conversations with empathy
• Overcoming resistance and building coachee ownership

Module 7: Embedding a Coaching Culture

Estimated time: 0.5 hours

• Establishing peer-to-peer coaching frameworks
• Leveraging team huddles and rituals for skill practice
• Creating psychological safety for open dialogue
• Encouraging continuous learning and reflection

Module 8: Coaching Metrics & Next Steps

Estimated time: 0.5 hours

• Measuring coaching impact through goal achievement
• Tracking engagement and retention metrics
• Sustaining momentum with communities of practice
• Planning ongoing development and certification paths

Prerequisites

• Experience in a managerial or team leadership role
• Familiarity with basic performance conversations
• Commitment to personal development and active listening

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Differentiate coaching from managing and mentoring to empower teams
• Apply the GROW model to structure effective coaching conversations
• Use active listening and powerful questions to unlock insights
• Deliver balanced, impactful feedback using the SBI framework
• Embed a sustainable coaching culture within your team or organization