Overview
This fast-paced, practical course introduces learners to the mindsets, behaviours, and tools that underpin effective coaching in the workplace. Participants will explore how to move from providing answers to enabling ownership through a simple five-question structure. Designed for immediate on-the-job application, the course combines insight with practice, helping learners hold focused, reflective conversations—even under pressure. Participants will leave with greater confidence to coach in real-time, everyday interactions.
Prerequisites
There are no formal prerequisites for this course. However, learners will benefit from:
- Experience in leading or supporting colleagues in professional contexts
- An interest in developing communication and leadership skills
Target audience
This course is designed for:
- Professionals seeking to develop foundational coaching skills
- Team leaders and managers aiming to foster ownership and motivation
- Individuals who want to lead more empowering, solution-focused conversations at work
Learning objectives
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
- Recognise the difference between coaching, advising, and fixing
- Identify behaviours and mindsets that help or hinder effective coaching
- Understand and use a five-question structure for quick, focused coaching
- Apply the framework to a real-world challenge with confidence
- Use active listening and open questioning to deepen reflection and engagement
- Embed coaching tools into everyday work conversations
What will the course cover?
What coaching is (and isn’t)
- How coaching differs from advising, instructing, and fixing
- Common assumptions and myths about coaching
- Reframing the purpose of workplace coaching
Enablers and blockers of coaching
- Mindsets that promote ownership and insight
- Behaviours that build—or erode—coaching effectiveness
- Building trust and psychological safety
The five-question framework
- Introduction to the framework and its flow
- Purpose and power of each question
- Flexing the model to suit different contexts
Practical application
- Live demonstrations of coaching in action
- Peer coaching sessions using the five-question structure
- Reflecting on coaching style and opportunities for growth
Embedding coaching in your role
- Spotting coachable moments in everyday work
- Tips for sustaining coaching habits over time
- Integrating coaching with leadership responsibilities
Exams and assessments
There are no exams or formal assessments in this course. Learners will engage in:
- Peer coaching exercises with feedback
- Self-reflection and coaching behaviour reviews
- Structured group discussions to reinforce learning
Hands-on learning
This course features:
- Real-world coaching simulations using the five-question model
- Interactive practice in pairs and small groups
- Instructor-supported roleplays with guided feedback
- Reflection exercises to personalise the coaching approach
Frequently asked questions
How can I create an account on myQA.com?
There are a number of ways to create an account. If you are a self-funder, simply select the "Create account" option on the login page.
If you have been booked onto a course by your company, you will receive a confirmation email. From this email, select "Sign into myQA" and you will be taken to the "Create account" page. Complete all of the details and select "Create account".
If you have the booking number you can also go here and select the "I have a booking number" option. Enter the booking reference and your surname. If the details match, you will be taken to the "Create account" page from where you can enter your details and confirm your account.
Find more answers to frequently asked questions in our FAQs: Bookings & Cancellations page.
How do QA’s virtual classroom courses work?
Our virtual classroom courses allow you to access award-winning classroom training, without leaving your home or office. Our learning professionals are specially trained on how to interact with remote attendees and our remote labs ensure all participants can take part in hands-on exercises wherever they are.
We use the WebEx video conferencing platform by Cisco. Before you book, check that you meet the WebEx system requirements and run a test meeting to ensure the software is compatible with your firewall settings. If it doesn’t work, try adjusting your settings or contact your IT department about permitting the website.
How do QA’s online courses work?
QA online courses, also commonly known as distance learning courses or elearning courses, take the form of interactive software designed for individual learning, but you will also have access to full support from our subject-matter experts for the duration of your course. When you book a QA online learning course you will receive immediate access to it through our e-learning platform and you can start to learn straight away, from any compatible device. Access to the online learning platform is valid for one year from the booking date.
All courses are built around case studies and presented in an engaging format, which includes storytelling elements, video, audio and humour. Every case study is supported by sample documents and a collection of Knowledge Nuggets that provide more in-depth detail on the wider processes.
When will I receive my joining instructions?
Joining instructions for QA courses are sent two weeks prior to the course start date, or immediately if the booking is confirmed within this timeframe. For course bookings made via QA but delivered by a third-party supplier, joining instructions are sent to attendees prior to the training course, but timescales vary depending on each supplier’s terms. Read more FAQs.
When will I receive my certificate?
Certificates of Achievement are issued at the end the course, either as a hard copy or via email. Read more here.