An initial interview with a client is conducted to determine the areas in which the shadow consultation is to take place. Once these areas are determined a well-formed outcome statement will be developed for each area. The well-formed outcome statement is mutually derived by the consultant and client. This outcome must contain measureable, quantitative and qualitative data for purposes of determining return on investment against the cost of shadow consulting/coaching.
Additionally, a base-line is established with reference to the areas to be observed/coached. This is accomplished through the medium of 360 degree evaluation utilizing, superordinates, peers, and subordinates in the organizational flow chart.
Subsequently, a schedule will be established for the shadow consultation to take place. The consultant will "shadow" the client for an established number of days which will involve the areas determined above. At the end of each meeting, or the end of the day, the consultant will review with the client the interaction which was observed. A determination of how that interaction and the results of that interaction either moved forward or caused a loss of momentum in the area of the well-formed outcome.
An example would be:
A well-formed outcome where a client wanted to be seen as more open and seeking with employees. This would occur in all interactions with employees.
The shadow consultation resulted in feedback which indicated the client had not established rapport, closed off communication, gave directions without hearing the whole story from an employee. The question would then be asked, "How does this help you toward achieving your stated outcome?" Additional questions might include: "What would you do differently?", "How do you think the employee felt?", "What would be your next step with this employee?"
These would lead the client into a review and rethinking of his/her actions and how these are leading to the achievement or non-achievement of the stated outcomes. Of course, there are many times when the client has acted appropriately and in synch with the stated outcomes. This is vital information for individuals like, CEOs, executive directors, plant managers, etc. whose actions have a direct effect on the bottom line.
