The Jazz Cadence of Coaching
Coaching and jazz may feel like two completely different things, but they are one in the same.
I had the great pleasure to be on a podcast recently with former Wall Street Journal colleague Adam Najberg. You can listen to it here. (https://bit.ly/heartsatworkepisode1)
Adam and I walked through a mini coaching session, where we talked through an issue. For me, it was a stern test, yet familiar. When I work with a client, it’s a session as part of a whole program. And, I have a structure of how that session should play out.
I emphasize should.
When my client comes to the session with a pressing issue, the script gets thrown out. We work together to address the issue in a way that’s beneficial for them. The client leads the session, and I facilitate and help them understand where they want to be at that moment.
It’s not dissimilar to listening to a jazz group play. There is a structure to jazz—the vamp (beginning), the intro, the break and the outro. The break is that part with all the fantastic solos. That break allows for creativity to flourish, making audible art.
What’s wonderful about both coaching and jazz is that there is a tried-and-true structure in place, which you have to know how it works. Then, you can understand how flexible the structure is, so you can meet the demands that are present.
In other words, you have to know the rules, in order to break the rules. What I’m attempting to do as a coach is have the work coherent and actionable for my client. Or, to use jazz vernacular, make it swing.
There’s something else in coaching, that’s more important: being seen. People want to be seen. The flexibility in the coaching structure I use lets me toss the plan and be present with my client. What are they thinking, what are they feeling, how can I help them zoom out and recast the issue.
Or, sometimes, just listen. Some of us just need someone to listen to us, our hopes, our fears. And not pass judgment.
I tell my clients, when you work with me, you’re in a judgment-free zone. You don’t have to fret. You can relax here.
The cadences of both coaching and jazz are quite similar. There is an element of improvisation occurring. In coaching, my challenge, and my joy, is maintaining presence with who I am across from.
I’m Richard Taliaferro, a career and health coach helping people gain clarity on their career and health journeys. Are you interested in how I can help you? I invite you to click on the link, and let’s talk about how I can support you.