CCNI Core Competencies Series

The CCNI Core Competency Series is designed to provide the CCNI membership a greater insight into the competencies that make Christian coaching superior to all other forms of coaching. The CCNI Core Competency Series is provided by the CCNI Board.

CCNI Core Competency #2

Presenter: Susan Litwiller, Ed.S., MBA

This presentation will explore the aspects and nuances for Christian Coaches to focus on their own mindset during coaching conversations. Working within the framework of sound Biblical principles, we will expand upon how to listen through the lens of how God has uniquely designed each client and assist with revealing the unique gifts and talents within. Using the client’s own thoughts and ideas, refrain from the coaches own experiences and challenges to allow the progression of a clients unveiling of limiting beliefs

In addition, the CCNI credentialed coach:

1. Is respectful of the client’s right not to have spiritual references incorporated into the coaching session. When included, however, the coach offers to understand the client’s perspective of what God is doing in the client’s life to support that work.
2. Stays receptive and inquisitive instead of reverting to forms of ministry, preaching, mentoring, pastoring, advising or consulting.
3. Does not allow genuine concern for client to translate into proselytizing (preaching).
4. Shows up in a completely collaborative way, never as competitors, convincers, or cajolers; there is comfortable differing with clients on core matters of faith and belief, resisting the pull to agree as well as the pull to express disagreement.
5. Maintains a positive and inquisitive view and remains hopeful in the client’s potential in Christ.
6. Does not leverage questions to lead the client toward the coach’s view of what God wants for them.
7. Trusts God’s providence and timing and recognizes that it is God’s purview to convict, not the coach’s.
8. Bases questions on what is heard from the client and from the Holy Spirit.

The Coaching Mindset is one that Develops and maintains a mindset that is open, curious, flexible and client centered. Additionally:

1. Acknowledges that clients are responsible for their own choices.
2. Engages in ongoing learning and development as a Christian coach.
3. Develops an ongoing reflective practice to enhance one’s coaching.
4. Remains aware of and open to the influence of context and culture on self and others.
5. Uses awareness of self and one’s intuition to benefit clients.
6. Develops and maintains the ability to regulate one’s emotions.
7. Mentally and emotionally prepares for sessions.
8. Seeks help from outside sources when necessary

This competency embraces the essence of what it means to be a coach. CCNI coaches maintain a mindset of openness, curiosity, flexibility, and client-centeredness. Coaches are open to what God is doing in their own lives, are curious to learn what the Holy Spirit is teaching and are flexible in moving in the way God is leading. The Christian coach takes responsibility for their own spiritual development – seeking to always be growing and maturing in their faith. The Christian coach is committed to the good of their clients and trusts God to bring that about. The Christian coach commits to pray for the clients in preparation for each session and for their good throughout the coaching relationship.

=====================================================

Susan Litwiller, is an executive coach with over 20 years of experience in leadership development and coaching. Susan specializes in serving the C-suite and helping executives achieve their personal and professional goals.

Susan holds an Ed.S degree and an MBA, providing a deep understanding of both education and business. Her dissertation work focused on the impact of employee engagement and structural empowerment on workplace environments. This research provided Susan with a solid ability to gain insights into the drivers of employee motivation and satisfaction. Additionally, as a certified Master NeuroCoach, Susan applies the latest neuroscience research and techniques to help clients achieve their desired outcomes. She helps both individuals and organizations overcome barriers to success and reach their full potential.

As a leadership expert and strategy coach, Susan partners with clients to develop their leadership skills, enhance decision-making abilities, and increase emotional intelligence. Her approach is collaborative, supportive, and results driven. She has a unique way of weaving brain science with leadership and management principles to create innovative solutions to today’s complex challenges.