Disclosure: I am an independent USANA Associate and may earn commissions on sales. Opinions here are my own. This is general information, not medical, legal or financial advice. No income is guaranteed, and results vary from person to person.
New leaders often make the same mistake: they tell people what to do. Telling can work for simple tasks, but it does not build confident, independent team members. Coaching does. Here is the difference and how to start.
Telling
Telling is giving direct instructions: "Send this message," or "Post three times a week." It is fast and clear but leaves people dependent on you.
Coaching
Coaching means asking questions that help people find their own answers: "What do you want from this business?" and "What is one thing you could try this week?" It takes longer but builds ownership.
When to tell and when to coach
Tell when the person is new and needs a clear step or when rules are involved, such as company policies. Coach when the person understands the basics and needs to make decisions.
Simple coaching questions
- What went well this week?
- What was hard?
- What did you learn?
- What will you try next?
- How can I help?
Listen more than you speak
In a coaching conversation, aim to speak about a third of the time. Take notes and repeat back what you heard.
Give honest feedback
Be kind and specific. Instead of "That was bad," try "The opening was friendly, and next time try asking one more question before you share any information."
Be patient
People grow at different speeds. A leader who stays supportive builds a team that stays.