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Example coaching questions

Below are some example coaching questions which the appraiser can use to enhance the appraisal conversation.

These are only suggestions, and shouldn't be viewed as an exhaustive list.

Opening questions

  • What would you like to happen that is not happening now?
  • What will service users/stakeholders/carers notice that is different?
  • What will you have to do to carry out your objectives?
  • Where are you right now?
  • What is stopping you?
  • What concerns you most about … ?

Understanding and building on current resources

  • When has the situation/workplace been at its most productive?
  • What would be the implications of things staying as they are?
  • What specifically is happening?
  • What do people feel about this?
  • How does it look to you?
  • What part is not clear?
  • Can you tell me more?
  • What other ideas/thoughts/feelings do you have about it?
  • What is the opportunity here?
  • What are your options?
  • How else could you handle this?
  • What have you tried so far?

Wrap-up and next steps

  • What are the next steps?
  • What specifically will you do?
  • What support do you need?

Last reviewed: 18 November 2024

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