In the rush of decisions, deadlines and delivery, it’s easy to forget there is more than one way to show up as a leader.
Most of us got to where we are because of our expertise. We’ve been rewarded for solving problems.
But coaching asks something different of us and gives something powerful back. It is one of the most effective ways to build capability in the people around us.
This is a reminder to put on your ‘coaching hat’ more often than you think.
Three ways to start:
1. Try one more question
Before offering your view, ask one more open question.
- What strikes you as important here?
- What do you think we should do next?
- What might you be seeing that I’m not?
2. Listen for thinking, not just content
- When someone is speaking, don’t just pay attention to their conclusion. Listen for how they are making sense of the situation.
- What questions did they ask themselves?
- What questions are you asking yourself?
3. Stay with the stretch — yours and theirs
Growth is uncomfortable. People often go quiet while venturing into new territory. Non-verbals matter.
Your presence matters here: eye contact, patience, and attention signal care for the person, the topic, and the work of growth.
Putting on your coaching hat doesn’t mean abandoning authority or accountability. It means being deliberate about when you step forward with answers — and when you step back to build capability.
What might you practise more this week?
