Practice makes perfect

Ed Parsloe, CEO of coaching and mentoring provider The OCM describes how AI-powered coaching skills practice can develop leadership skills for facilities managers

However, as FMs often move from technical roles into management positions some have not undertaken any leadership coaching or training. Even if they have, traditional leadership often focuses on theory rather than practical application, leavings managers struggling to apply their newfound skills as soon as they have left the classroom.

AI-POWERED SKILLS PRACTICE: BRIDGING THE THEORY VERSUS APPLICATION GAP

AI-powered skills practice offers a powerful solution when combined with expert led training. By offering scenario-based practice, realistic conversations and real-time feedback, AI can bridge the gap between theory and application and accelerate learning. This approach makes leadership development more accessible, scalable, and effective, leading to lasting behavioural change.

EXPERT-LED COACHING

It is important to note that AI is not a substitute for the essential human element in teaching coaching skills. However, it can enhance the impact of expert-led training.

Ideally, a cohort will start by attending an intensive in-person workshop facilitated by experienced professional coaches. Who will ensure good peer collaboration, ensuring that AI-driven skills practice is tailored to everyone’s learning requirements. Group reflective practice sessions ensure continuous support and the transference of learning into the workplace.

HOW AI-POWERED SKILLS LEARNING WORKS

Following the initial training, AI-powered tools come to the fore and provide an innovative and fun way of ensuring learning that incorporates continuous reinforcement and practical application. Individuals can engage with AI-powered avatars in different work-based scenarios to practice a range of challenging conversations.

These might include career discussions with high performers who lead by example, performance review objective setting, supporting underperformers, managing conflict resolution or supporting team members through tricky situations.

Using the avatars to practice in a risk-free AI environment, FMs can enhance their coaching and communication skills and accelerate their learning before they apply them in real-life situations.

They can practice at their convenience and receive continuous, real-time feedback based on the insights and best practices of expert professional coaches who adhere to EMCC coaching standards.

This personalised feedback accelerates their learning, helping them to improve their skills quickly and effectively so they are better prepared for real-world challenges. This approach ensures that learned skills are deeply embedded and readily applied in professional settings, mitigating the “forgetting curve” commonly associated with traditional training.

The AI-powered programme also encourages reflection, repeated practice, and judgment-free learning. The shared experience of AI-enabled skills practice promotes collaboration, engagement, and collective growth.

MAKING COACHING SCALABLE AND ACCESSIBLE

AI-powered platforms offer scalable and cost-effective solutions providing valuable coaching skills practice opportunities to employees across the business.

MEASURING IMPACT

One of the significant advantages of AI-powered skills training is its ability to provide robust data and analytics to measure performance. Each participant receives personalised performance metrics, offering clear insights into their development and progress. Simultaneously, organisations can use this data to measure the effectiveness of the coaching programme and justify their investment.

THE FUTURE OF FM LEADERSHIP

The most effective FM leadership development programmes in the future will integrate AI skills practice with traditional coaching. AI provides the platform for practice and immediate feedback, while human coaches offer invaluable mentorship and emotional intelligence. This blended approach ensures FMs develop both practical skills and essential interpersonal qualities. By seamlessly integrating AI technology with human coaching, organisations can ensure their FM leaders have the skills to succeed in today’s business environments.

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