Key Takeaways from "Coaching Agile Teams" by Lisa Atkins
Presented by Tutu Ario
Introduction
Tutu Ario, an ICF certified agile coach, shares insights from "Coaching Agile Teams" by Lisa Atkins.
The book is highly recommended for anyone involved in agile coaching, including Scrum Masters, agile team leads, tech leads, and employers of agile coaches.
Focuses on driving organizational transformation through effective coaching.
Takeaway 1: Wear the Right Hat
Agile coaches must adapt their role based on the team's needs:
Teacher: For new teams learning agile concepts.
Coach: Guide teams to solve problems themselves.
Mentor: Share experiences and give pep talks.
Facilitator/Mediator: Ensure productive discussions and resolve conflicts.
Consultant: Offer expert advice sparingly.
Mastering the "art of hat switching" empowers teams to thrive.
Takeaway 2: Stop Being the Boss
Shift from a directive to a coaching stance.
Empower teams rather than micromanage them:
Facilitate self-discovery and experimentation.
Encourage accountability and self-organization.
Coaches create safe environments for teams to find solutions.
Takeaway 3: High-Performing Teams Are Built Intentionally
Teams evolve through stages: forming, storming, norming, and performing.
Conflict is healthy when managed constructively.
Psychological Safety: Crucial for risk-taking, admitting mistakes, and challenging ideas.
Continuous feedback and servant leadership are key.
Takeaway 4: Get Comfortable with Chaos
Agile environments are unpredictable; coaches guide teams through uncertainty.
Embrace chaos as a source of creativity and innovation:
Let go of control and empower teams to adapt.
Encourage problem-solving and experimentation.
Takeaway 5: Work on Personal Growth and Self-Mastery
Self-awareness and personal growth are essential for effective coaching:
Understand personal triggers, strengths, and weaknesses.
Model desired behaviors such as curiosity and accountability.
Continuous personal development and emotional intelligence are critical.
Conclusion
"Coaching Agile Teams" is a valuable resource for agile coaches to enhance their skills.
Recommended for anyone looking to improve team support and leadership abilities.
The book emphasizes continuous improvement and self-development as a pathway to better coaching and team empowerment.
Call to Action
Tutu recommends reading "Coaching Agile Teams" and applying its principles to transform team dynamics and personal coaching strategies.
Watch Tutu's video on Agile vs. Professional Coaching for additional insights.
Engage with Tutu via email or LinkedIn for coaching support.
Final Thoughts
Agile coaching focuses on coaching humans, not just frameworks.
Continuous improvement starts with self.
Book is available in the description for those interested in deepening their agile coaching capabilities.