Do it yourself! Or the improvement of personal competences in the civil service by means of self-coaching

Abstract

The aim of the study is to present how those working in the public sector can improve their personal competences by using the tools of self-coaching. It illustrates that, as a result of selfcoaching, self-confidence and self-esteem are increasing, the person becomes more flexible and his/her self-control improves. All of these personal competences are paid special attention in the public sector. In terms of workplace arrangements, actual challenges are the requirements imposed by digitalisation and e-government, as well as the extremely quick progress. In this dynamic and inconsistent working environment, as regards compliance with the requirements of the position, adaptation to changes and flexibility are even greater expectations that employees shall meet. More and more positions in the public sector keep changing, which not only results in new tasks and responsibilities, but also the expectations of employers are changing. When it comes to accept innovations, such soft skills as accepting attitude, learning skills and efficient change management are of extreme importance. The study presents the possibilities of using the coaching process that promotes progress in the public sector. In the course of an empirical research, the author studied the possibilities of personal improvement in case of three persons working in the public sector, taking up different positions. For the aims of the research the sixphase model named DIADAL (diagnosis–goal-setting–alternatives–decision realisation–closure) was used. On the basis of her experience and conclusions, the author formulated recommendations for the decision makers of the public sector.