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GROW Model
The GROW Model is a powerful framework for structuring coaching conversations and problem-solving discussions. Developed by Sir John Whitmore in the 1980s, it provides a clear four-step path from defining goals to establishing concrete action plans. The model's effectiveness lies in its ability to maintain focus while exploring options and creating accountability for action.
15min
Situational Response
Performance CoachingProblem SolvingCareer DevelopmentGoal Setting

Framework Steps

"

Goal

Establish clear, meaningful objectives for the conversation or situation. This step focuses on the desired end result rather than the problem itself.

Key Points

  • Ensure goals are SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound)
  • Focus on both short-term and long-term objectives
  • Align goals with broader personal or organizational objectives

Key Sentence Structures

  1. What would you like to achieve from this conversation?
  2. By the end of [timeframe], what specific outcome are you aiming for?
  3. How will you know when you've achieved this goal?
"

Reality

Examine the current situation objectively, gathering relevant facts and perspectives while avoiding assumptions.

Key Points

  • Gather concrete facts and evidence
  • Identify key stakeholders and their perspectives
  • Assess available resources and constraints

Key Sentence Structures

  1. What's happening right now in relation to this goal?
  2. What steps have you already taken?
  3. What obstacles are currently preventing progress?
"

Options

Explore various possibilities and alternatives for achieving the goal, encouraging creative thinking and comprehensive solution finding.

Key Points

  • Generate multiple alternatives without immediate judgment
  • Consider both conventional and innovative approaches
  • Evaluate feasibility and potential impact of each option

Key Sentence Structures

  1. What possible approaches could you take?
  2. If resources were unlimited, what would you do?
  3. What has worked in similar situations before?
"

Way Forward

Create a concrete action plan with specific steps, timelines, and accountability measures.

Key Points

  • Define specific, actionable next steps
  • Set clear timelines and milestones
  • Establish accountability measures

Key Sentence Structures

  1. What specific actions will you take first?
  2. When will you complete each step?
  3. How will you measure progress?

Practice Guide

1. Content Preparation

  • Prepare a real situation or challenge you want to address
  • Gather relevant data and background information
  • Identify key stakeholders and their perspectives
  • Review any previous attempts to address the situation

2. Key Points of Expression

Goal 25Reality 25Options 30Way Forward 20
  • Use open-ended questions to encourage deeper exploration
  • Maintain a curious and non-judgmental tone
  • Summarize key points at the end of each step
  • Use active listening and reflection techniques

3. Practice Methods

1
Record yourself conducting a GROW conversation with a practice scenario
2
Review the recording and assess your adherence to each step
3
Practice with increasingly complex scenarios
4
Get feedback from the AI system on your approach

Key Inspection Points

Clear step transitions
Effective questioning technique
Active listening skills
Action plan specificity

Example Analysis

Career Development Coaching Conversation

Basic Case
Goal

I want to transition into a senior management role within the next 18 months.

Reality

Currently a team leader with 5 years of experience, managing 8 people. Have completed basic leadership training but lack strategic planning experience.

Options

1. Pursue advanced management certification 2. Seek mentorship from senior executives 3. Take on additional strategic projects 4. Build broader network within the industry

Way Forward

Next month: Enroll in strategic management course Next quarter: Take lead on department's strategic planning Ongoing: Monthly meetings with assigned mentor Six months: Review progress and adjust plan

Highlight Analysis

Clear progression from broad goal to specific actions
Realistic assessment of current capabilities and gaps
Multiple actionable options generated
Specific timeline and measurable outcomes established

Team Performance Improvement Discussion

Advanced Case
Goal

Improve team project delivery time by 25% while maintaining quality standards within the next quarter.

Reality

Current project cycle takes 8 weeks on average. Team of 12 people working across 3 time zones. Recent quality audit showed 95% compliance but delayed deliveries.

Options

1. Implement agile methodology 2. Restructure team into smaller pods 3. Automate routine tasks 4. Establish new workflow processes 5. Enhance cross-training program

Way Forward

Week 1: Team restructuring into 3 pods Week 2-3: Agile training for all team members Week 4: New workflow implementation Weekly: Progress review meetings Monthly: Efficiency metrics analysis

Highlight Analysis

Quantifiable goal with clear success metrics
Comprehensive reality assessment including key performance indicators
Strategic options addressing multiple aspects of performance
Detailed implementation plan with clear milestones

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