The Key Components of an Effective Coaching-Based Management Style

In a sports environment, a “coach” is someone who trains athletes or athletic teams to achieve their maximum physical performance. In the business world, a “coach” refers to a manager who leads a team of employees, actualizes the professional potential of his or her employees, and achieves a “winning” service or product with his or her team.

The collaborative and engaging style of a "Coach" enables leaders to be a "manager-coach". This approach focuses on developing employees in order to achieve business results rather than managing their every move. The mindset of the manager-coach is to create an environment that fosters learning, independent thinking and opportunities to contribute. The manager-coach doesn't want to be seen as a solution provider. Rather, they want to be seen as a facilitator, paving the way for the employee to achieve their results. Manager-Coaches are a role model for others. They are excellent listeners and communicators, providing perspective and encouragement while also setting high standards and expectations.

An effective coach-manager does the following:

•  Manages different personality styles effectively
•  Facilitates employee goal-setting
•  Creates a motivational environment
•  Adjusts leadership style to meet employee needs
•  Gives feedback that is positive and constructive, and seeks such feedback
•  Rewards and recognizes good performance
•  Listens with attention and empathy
•  Sets goals for the department that are short- and long-term
•  Develops employees
•  Delegates to improve productivity and employee development
•  Provides resources for employee success
•  Empowers employees to solve problems independently
•  Measures performance of the department and employees within it
•  Inspires trust and displays trust in others
•  Maintains confidentiality
•  Increases visibility of employees in the organization

Teams of emotionally engaged employees deliver customer growth and profitability along with cost-reductions through reduced turnover, absenteeism, theft and safety 2 ½ times greater than disengaged teams. Only teams of top talent can consistently deliver the results you must have in this challenging economy. A coach-based team leader is required to make that happen.

Coach-based management is an organization-wide strategy for turning good managers into great team leaders who will turn your good people into top talent.