Coaching Conversation Template

A structured coaching conversation template for managers and employees to discuss goals, current reality, options, next steps, and accountability.

Conversation Context

• Conversation Date
  Date the coaching conversation took place.
• Primary Focus Area
  Main topic for the coaching discussion.
• Conversation Purpose
  Briefly describe why this coaching conversation is being held.
• Business or Team Context
  Capture any relevant workload, project, or organizational context affecting the discussion.

Goals and Desired Outcome

• Goal Statement
  State the specific goal being coached.
• Desired Outcome
  Describe the outcome the employee and manager want to achieve.
• Success Measures
  List observable indicators that will show progress or success.
• Target Date
  Date by which the goal or next milestone should be achieved.

Current Reality

• Current Reality
  Describe what is happening now using specific, observable facts.
• Observed Behaviors and Impact
  Capture specific behaviors and the impact they have on work, team, or customers.
• Barriers or Constraints
  List obstacles, dependencies, or constraints affecting performance or progress.
• Employee Perspective
  Capture the employee's view of the situation, including root causes or concerns.

Options and Support

• Options Considered
  Document possible actions or approaches discussed during the coaching conversation.
• Support Needed
  Select the support types needed to help the employee succeed.
• Resources or Commitments from Manager
  Document what the manager will provide to support progress.

Accountability and Follow-Up

• Action Plan
  Capture agreed actions, owners, timelines, and success criteria for follow-up.
• Follow-Up Date
  Date for the next coaching check-in.
• Accountability Notes
  Summarize commitments, risks, and any agreed escalation path if progress stalls.
• Employee Acknowledgement
  Employee confirms they reviewed and understood the coaching plan.
• Manager Acknowledgement
  Manager confirms the coaching discussion and follow-up plan.