1. Agile Camp Silicon Valley 9/21/13 Page 1 of 2
Presence-Based Coaching
Jeff McKenna and Roger Brown
Agile Camp Silicon Valley 9/21/13
Definitions from Doug Silsbee
Coaching is a relationship in which one person is primarily dedicated to serving the long term
development of effectiveness and self-generation in the other.
Mindfulness is the rigorous attention to observing ourselves in action to become fluid, intuitive,
aware and exquisitely responsive.
Presence is the underlying state we access through mindfulness that allows us to be the best
person we can be.
Notes
 The goal of coaching is to help the client learn, change and grow
 The coach will also learn, change and grow in the process
 Coaches have a box of tools at their disposal: mechanics, soft skills and leadership skills
 Tools are applied through observation, choice of tool and action
 Observation is a primary skill for the coach
 The most important subject for observation is ourself
 Self-observation is a type of mindfulness
 Mindfulness leads to the awareness of presence
 Awareness of presence enhances personal and professional growth for a coach
 Coaches can nurture mindfulness and presence in their clients
Summary
 Mindfulness is a practice that takes practice
 Mindfulness is essential for successful coaching
 Presence is here. Experience it.
 Being mindful will enhance our lives and skills, improving our
o Agility
o Accountability
o Resourcefulness
o Resilience
o Authenticity
o Vitality

2. Agile Camp Silicon Valley 9/21/13 Page 2 of 2
A Story From Presence-Based Coaching by Doug Silsbee
References
 The Mindful Coach and Presence-Based Coaching by Doug Silsbee
 The Leadership Dojo by Richard Strozzi-Heckler
 Coaching with NLP: How to be a Master Coach by Joseph O'Connor
 The Human Side of Agile by Gil Broza
 Exercises: http://www.dougsilsbee.com/books/pbc/practices