Numerous studies have shown that investment in high-impact leadership development can dramatically increase the odds of achieving or exceeding organizational goals. Coaching, in particular, is a unique opportunity for leaders to meet regularly with someone whose only purpose is to help them be more successful. Here Nicki Roth discusses the benefits of having coach, how to choose one, and how to get the most from a coaching relationship

Hiring an executive coach can help you grow as a leader in ways that few other resources can provide. In a 2011 Compasspoint report titled Daring to Lead, over 3,000 nonprofit executives were surveyed about the challenges they face. Among their top three recommendations for supporting their development as leaders was expanding the use of executive coaches. Respondents in the study overwhelmingly cited coaching as one of the most effective developmental resources especially when coupled with peer networks. That said, a small percentage of leaders actually had a coach.

Coaching, in particular, is a unique opportunity to meet regularly with someone whose only purpose is to help you be wildly successful. The coach brings insights, new ideas, recommendations, and stories about other leaders who have traveled the same path. What you need to bring to the conversation is your willingness to learn and experiment with new behaviors. Describe tough issues that cause you to stumble and strengths that work well. You need to go beyond venting about a frustrating situation and be open to new perspectives and new actions in an effort to best develop yourself and to add value to your organization.

Read the full article by Nicki Roth about an executive coach from The Bridgespan Group