Thinking about how to deal with the expectation that a coach and/or teacher is supposed to speak throughout a session, I came across a video with Nancy Kline addressing this very question. When we are hired to coach or teach, it is usually because we are seen as the expert with knowledge and information for the coachee or student. The belief that the "Learner" has their own idea or solution or knowledge can sometimes be lacking.
If more of us think in terms of our employees or students having an inkling of how they could help themselves, how much more acceptable would silence from the coach / teacher be?
Watch the video below and listen to how Nancy answers the question from someone in her audience - note also how still and attentive Nancy remains until the question has been completely stated.
