Examining Influence

Examining influence, the “E” phase of the VECTOR virtual coaching process, focuses on locus of control. Many conditions and circumstances influence an educator's life and practice; however, the external influences are often outside the educator's control. In this chapter, the authors describe a variety of these influences, and they use examples and anecdotes to guide the reader to a better understanding of this phase. They also offer practical tips for working with educators to determine the things in their sphere of influence so that precious coaching time is not wasted on issues, circumstances, and conditions outside their control. Finally, the authors explain why this phase is essential before a goal can be set in the C-commit to change phase.