Robert Hargrove

Forget the need to be charismatic and smart. Remember Detective Colombo

Imagine you were a world famous business guru, like Tom Peters, standing up in front of a crown of 1000 people in a $1000 business suit. You fully intend to come off not only as charismatic and talented, but as one of the most intelligent people on the planet.

STOP!!!! This approach is great for talking in front of a big crowd, but is 180 degrees opposite to how you want to show up in a coaching conversation. Instead of using the likes of Tom as your role model when you sit down for a coaching conversation, think about Detective Colombo from the old TV show.

He never wore a $1000 suit, never tried to come off as charismatic, and never tried to prove to suspects how smart he was. Further, his trademarks were his cigar, humble raincoat, and his ability to engage and inquire: “Pardon me sir. I just wanted to ask you one more question.”

I have found that once you tell clients what your coaching is all about, “Impossible Futures, Leadership and Business Breakthroughs,” you are much better off drawing people out and asking questions.

Even though I have the ability to be charismatic and smart, I make a concerted effort in coaching conversations to have a very matter of fact way: “Well, I have listened to what you said, and if you would like to hear it, there is a Teachable Point of View I would like to share with you that may help in your situation…”