Agentic Coaching
Agentic coaching leverages Large Language Models (LLMs) as complementary tools for designer growth and development. While they can't replace human coaching entirely, LLMs can provide valuable support for self-reflection, goal setting, and skill development through their ability to offer feedback and structured guidance.
LLMs are highly available, have a consistent structure for self-reflection, allow for risk-free space to rehearse fierce conversations, and are excellent for developing skills. The ability to have an ongoing conversation with relevant context is a key advantage of LLMs.
Remember: AI is not a replacement for human coaching, and AI-generated content has limitations. The value in implementing AI-assisted coaching is in the process and reflection, not generating "answers."
LLMs can serve as powerful tools for performance documentation when provided with detailed context as well, taking some of the pain out of performance review cycles. Designers can leverage LLMs to synthesize their contributions into clear, impactful narratives. AI tools excel at identifying patterns across projects, translating design work into business impact, and structuring achievements for different audiences – whether that's for quarterly check-ins, annual reviews, or brag docs. The key is consistent documentation: when designers regularly capture their work, metrics, and feedback, LLMs can help transform this raw information into compelling stories about growth, impact, and value creation.
Example Prompts
Goal Setting
You're a design career coach. I am a designer who is working on [specific skills]. Provide 3-5 SMART goals for the next quarter.
Variations: 1. "... working on communication, strategy, and systems thinking" 2. "... focusing on user research and interaction design" 3. "... developing leadership and mentoring abilities"
Project Retro
I'd like to reflect on a recent design project. Here's the context: - Project goal: [description] - My role: [description] - Outcomes: [description] - Challenges: [description]
Please help me analyze: 1. What went well 2. What could have been improved 3. Key learnings 4. How to apply these insights in future projects
Skill Assessment
As a design coach, help me assess my current level in [skill area]. I'll describe my experience and capabilities, and I'd like you to:
- Evaluate my current level (novice to expert)
- Identify specific strengths
- Highlight growth opportunities
- Suggest next steps for improvement
Forming Feedback
I need to give feedback on another designer's work. Here's the situation:
[describe context and work]
Help me structure feedback that: 1. Is specific and actionable 2. Balances positive and constructive points 3. Encourages growth
Communicating with Stakeholders
Help me prepare for a challenging conversation about [topic].
Context: - Stakeholder role: [description] - Current situation: [description] - Desired outcome: [description]
Please provide: 1. A conversation structure 2. Key talking points 3. Potential objections and responses 4. Success metrics