Merriam-Webster defines a pivot as a shaft or pin on which something turns.
Making a change in direction, no matter the circumstances, can be daunting to many people. Whether that’s a corporate leader charged with igniting a paradigm shift or an individual whose circumstances unexpectedly change and require them to pivot, or someone choosing to make a change (like retirement), there are some good frameworks and models to learn about that could be useful when used to create awareness with clients and leaders you work with.
5 Step Pivot Method by Miriam Arond
P=Philosophy – a mindset that enables you to be positive.
I=Insight – Take stock of your skills, strengths and what brings you joy.
V=Vision – Think Expansively About Possibilities. Expand your Vision of who you can be and what you can do to succeed at this next stage.
O=Other Skills Needed – Filling in gaps to increase confidence.
T=Transformation – The process of perfecting your pivot involves presenting yourself in a stronger, better and convincing manner.
Michaela Calhoun’s interpretation of PIVOT gives clients the opportunity to develop clarity around a situation:
– Perspective
– Introspective
– Variations
– Open
– Transformation
Perspective
It is important for the coach to understand the client’s current perspective to help the client move forward and achieve what he/she desires. While many clients will know their current perspective on their situation, there is still a lot to explore. The client needs to have the space to verbalize what they are going through without judgment.
Introspective
The core of the focus throughout the coaching engagement. The client needs to turn inwards and thoughtfully reflect on his/her current perspective. The coach and client need to partner together to explore how the client’s current perspective is serving him/her and what else may be possible.
Variations
As a result of the client’s introspective work, he/she will begin to uncover new ways of moving forward. This creates variations for the client to explore. The coach partners with the client to explore these variations determining which of those they feel are most beneficial to them.
Open
While this should be set up in the beginning of the coaching engagement, trust is built over time with clients and is the basis for the client feeling safe to be open. The client needs to be open about their thoughts, feelings, beliefs, ideas, and values and be open to the new awareness and variations uncovered throughout the coaching process. The coach needs to create a space for the client that is free of judgment and allows the client to feel safe to share things he/she may not have shared with anyone else.
Transformation
Throughout the coaching engagement, a coach wants to empower their clients to help them unlock their potential, whether in work, life, or both. A coach utilizes their skills to help the client see new possibilities and further assists the client in identifying what will work best for the client to move forward. This occurs through the partnership established between the coach and client. As a result, the client can create their own transformations and feel empowered to move forward.
There’s so many great ideas and options in both of these models that, when combined with Appreciative Inquiry, ignites opportunities within organizations and individuals challenged with pivots.
Challenge yourself to increase your leadership and coaching acumen with the Elevar Group Course, Coaching the Pivot where you can dig into these ideas and fill up your leadership toolbox with a necessary skillset.
Can’t make a scheduled session fit your calendar? This course is also available On Demand starting Spring 2023.