What Is a Pracademic?
A "pracademic" is a term used to describe an individual who combines both academic knowledge and practical experience in a particular field. The word is a portmanteau of "practical" and "academic." Pracademics bridge the gap between theory and practice by integrating scholarly understanding with real-world application. They are individuals who have not only pursued academic studies and gained theoretical expertise but have also worked in practical settings, applying their knowledge to real-life situations.
Why You Want a Pracademic as Your Leadership Coach.
Combination of Academia and Practice
In the context of leadership coaching, a pracademic leadership coach would possess academic education in leadership theories or related fields, while also having practical experience working in leadership roles or consulting with organizations. This combination of academic background and hands-on experience allows them to provide more well-rounded and actionable guidance to individuals seeking to improve their leadership skills. Having a leadership coach who is a "pracademic" and possesses both academic education and practical field application can offer a range of unique benefits. The combination of theoretical knowledge and real-world experience creates a powerful blend that can greatly enhance the coaching process and outcomes.
More Holistic Approach to Leadership Coaching
A pracademic brings a more holistic perspective as a leadership coach. A pracademic coach provides a holistic perspective by integrating academic theories with real-world insights. This well-rounded viewpoint allows them to address complex leadership challenges in a comprehensive manner. Likewise, a pracademic leadership coach provides both a theoretical foundation and practical application to real world problems. The theoretical foundation is from the academic background of a pracademic coach. This means they are well-versed in leadership theories, models, and frameworks. They can use this knowledge to provide you with a solid foundation of concepts that can be applied practically. But they also provide practical application from the practical field experience. A pracademic coach ensures that the theories they teach are not just abstract concepts, but concepts that have been tried and tested in real organizational settings. This can lead to more relevant and actionable guidance.
Bridging the Gap and Building Credibility and Connections
A pracademic leadership coach can bridge the gap between academia and practice. Many leaders struggle with applying theoretical concepts in real-world situations. A pracademic coach can bridge the gap between theory and practice, guiding you in translating academic knowledge into actionable strategies. This helps build credibility and trust because the combination of academic credentials and practical experience can enhance the coach's credibility in your eyes. Knowing that your coach has navigated similar challenges in their own career can build trust and rapport. This is why many pracademic coaches help build networks and connections. Pracademic coaches often have connections in both academic and practical circles. This can provide you with opportunities to expand your professional network and gain insights from a wider range of sources.
More Customization, Better Problem-Solving and Continual Learning
Another great advantage of using a pracademic leadership coach is they are more capable to provide customization. Pracademic coaches can tailor their coaching approach based on your specific needs and the realities of your industry or organization. They can draw from their practical experiences to provide targeted advice that aligns with your unique challenges. Because they have both academic and practical experience, problem-solving is usually more impactful. With both academic and practical knowledge, pracademic coaches can assist you in analyzing complex leadership problems from multiple angles. They can help you identify creative solutions by combining theory-driven insights with practical considerations. They are usually also continually learning. A pracademic coach is likely to stay updated with the latest research and trends in leadership. They can introduce you to cutting-edge concepts that might not yet be widely known in the practical field.
Putting it All Together
At the end of the day, a pracademic brings a balanced approach to leadership coaching. A pracademic coach can help you strike a balance between staying rooted in proven principles and adapting to changing circumstances. They can guide you in making informed decisions that are informed by both theory and practice. A leadership coach who is a pracademic brings a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience to the table. This combination can lead to more effective coaching outcomes, helping you develop as a leader who not only understands leadership concepts but can also apply them successfully in real-world situations.
About the Author: Dr. Chris Fuzie is a "pracademic" and the owner of CMF Leadership Consulting and is currently is the Business/HR Manager for a District Attorney’s office in California. Chris is a Leaderologist II and Vice President of the National Leaderology Association (NLA) who holds a Doctor of Education (Ed. D), M.A. and B.A. in Organizational Leadership, and has graduate certificates in Human Resources and Criminal Justice Education. Chris is a developer, trainer, consultant for leadership of public, private, profit, and non-profit organizations since 2010. Chris is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and a former National Instructor for the International Association of Chiefs of Police and California P.O.S.T. Courses. Chris is the author of "Because Why... Understanding Behavior in Exigencies." and of "S.C.O.R.E. Performance Counseling: Save the Relationship, Change the Behavior." Chris is honorably retired from the Modesto Police Department after 28 years of public service leading such teams as the Homicide Team, the Hostage Negotiations Team, the Street-Level Drug Team and the School Police Officer Team.