Part 3: How Nonprofit Executives Utilize an Executive Coach

In the last segment, I discussed how an Executive Coach can help hold you accountable. Today I want to talk about a tool that coach's use called a "360" or a "multi-rater" assessment. Essentially, that means getting anonymous, confidential feedback from a variety of co-workers including direct reports, peers, managers and "other" (i.e., volunteers, Board members, community leaders, etc.)

The most common vehicle is an on-line assessment that takes the reviewer less than 15 minutes to complete. The person being reviewed also assesses her/himself--and usually gets back a summary of responses either instantly or within 24 hours. When the other reports are submitted, the individual being tested receives a comprehensive report describing and detailing the feedback, comparing self scores with both the average score of all reviewers plus individual reviewers scores. Most systems use charts to portray the information visually as well as in tables.

Because 360's are becoming institutionalized, there are multiple tools available both online and off. Caution is advised if you are considering using the 360 process--not only related to the instrument but even more important, the expertise of the person reporting the results.

Ideally, that person would be a trained executive coach. Why not have HR do it? Because successful change is more apt to happen with a trusted, trained outsider than an in-house, paid professional who reports to the CEO. "Everybody tells their best friend," my psychiatrist husband likes to say. Unfortunately, in some organizations, confidentiality is not as sacred as presented.

One concern is that in some circles, 360 assessments have become the "in" thing to do. Poorly handled assessments that include feedback from colleagues can be threatening and destructive. Poorly used assessments means that after the interpretation, the assessment results are placed in a drawer (much like some strategic plans!) never to be thought about again.

I have had several 360 experiences. Next time I will discuss those in detail in terms of what I learned and what I did with the information.

Best,

Judy

Judy Nelson, JD, MSW
Certified Professional Coach
http://www.coachjudynelson.com/
877.yesJudy (877.937-5839)
Order your copy of "Leading the Way to Success," with my co-authors Warren Bennis and Jack Canfield.