A Manager Coaching Group Model

Abstract

SUMMARY This article describes a model, benefits, and outcomes of a coaching and support group for managers. Professionals in the University of Texas at Austin Employee Assistance Program have created manager groups to support and coach managers in areas of skill development, including interpersonal challenges and communication, while providing a confidential forum for professional discussion. It is basic practice for EAPs to provide support to employees dealing with personal problems and one-on-one consultation for managers about an employee; however, few, if any, EAPs provide group coaching for managers in their roles as leaders. By facilitating manager groups EAPs can help reduce managers' stress and build their supportive and professional networks while helping to develop managers' communication and “soft skills.” A model is presented to demonstrate the format of the manager groups facilitated at the University of Texas at Austin.