GROW Model
A structured coaching framework using Goal, Reality, Options, and Will stages.
Also known as: GROW Coaching Model, GROW Framework
Category: Frameworks
Tags: coaching, leadership, frameworks, development, communication, problem-solving
Explanation
The GROW Model is one of the most widely used coaching frameworks, developed in the UK during the late 1980s. It provides a simple yet powerful structure for coaching conversations, helping coachees discover their own solutions rather than being told what to do.
The four stages:
G - Goal
- What do you want to achieve?
- What would success look like?
- How will you know when you've achieved it?
- Is this goal SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound)?
R - Reality
- What is the current situation?
- What have you tried so far?
- What obstacles are you facing?
- What resources do you have?
- On a scale of 1-10, where are you now?
O - Options
- What could you do?
- What else? (keep asking)
- What would you do if there were no constraints?
- What have you seen others do?
- What are the pros and cons of each option?
W - Will (or Way Forward)
- What will you do?
- When will you do it?
- What support do you need?
- How committed are you (1-10)?
- What might get in the way, and how will you handle it?
Key coaching principles:
1. Ask, don't tell - Questions unlock thinking
2. Trust the coachee - They have the answers
3. Stay curious - Avoid judgment
4. Listen deeply - What's not being said?
5. Silence is powerful - Let them think
GROW is effective because:
- Creates clarity through structured exploration
- Builds ownership - coachee generates solutions
- Develops capability - teaches problem-solving
- Works across contexts - career, performance, personal
GROW can be used in formal coaching sessions, one-on-ones, or even brief hallway conversations. The key is genuinely helping someone think through a challenge rather than solving it for them.
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