CopenhagenContext 2017

Coaching Testers To Become Better Testers [U01]

Everybody can run their head into a wall and get stuck – even the brightest, the most skillful and the brilliant. One way to get out of the tarpit is by using coaching. Coaching goes two ways: it is a means by which a tester can be helped to see the problem she is facing in a new light and perspective, but it is also a way for the coach to learn. In the best coaching sessions, both grow their insights. Thus to us, coaching is way better than just instructing others what to do to solve a problem.

Anyone can be a coach – we will show the participants how coaching situations keep occurring in everyday life and work, and that coaching does not necessarily have to be a life changing realization event happening with candle light, black cats and incense smoke. It’s more likely something we do already, through conversations and ‘lending an ear’.

We will use this workshop to help participants becoming better coaches, through practical exercises and shared reflection.

The aspects of coaching we will cover are:
- Feedback and how to give it so it is actually heard.
- Coaching situations – when you can coach with value.
- Coaching styles – find your own style, don’t be someone else.
- Meeting with the frustrations – sometimes work is needed before the coaching can be tackled.
- Coaching heuristics – a few tools you can use to help you when you as a coach gets stuck too.
- Coaching when on a remote working team - can it be done? (yes)

The workshop will be held in a relaxed tone and atmosphere where we will have fun learning about this highly useful subject.