When it comes to making a real difference at work, nothing beats good coaching. Whether you are a manager, team leader, or a keen team member, coaching skills can help unlock potential, boost motivation, and build a culture where everyone thrives. But coaching does not have to be stuffy or complicated. In fact, some of the best coaching moments happen when we keep things fun, down-to-earth, and practical. Ready to sharpen your coaching skills? Let’s dive in!
What Makes Coaching So Powerful?
Coaching is not about giving answers, it is about helping others find their own solutions. By asking the right questions and listening well, you encourage people to think for themselves and grow in confidence. Good coaching creates a space for learning, reflection, and action. It works for new starters and seasoned pros alike, and is just as valuable in one-to-ones as it is in team settings.
Here are some practical tips to make your coaching conversations not only effective, but also something your team looks forward to.
Tip 1: Ask Great Questions (And Listen Up!)
The magic of coaching starts with questions. Swap closed questions for open ones that get people talking. Try asking, “What have you tried so far?” or “What would success look like for you?” Then, stop talking and really listen. Give your full attention, show you are interested, and let them shape the conversation. You will be amazed at how much people open up when they feel truly heard.
Tip 2: Make Feedback a Two-Way Street
Forget about top-down feedback that feels like a telling-off. Great coaches turn feedback into a conversation. Start by asking, “How do you feel that went?” or “What would you do differently next time?” Share your observations, but focus more on asking than telling. This approach helps people reflect and take ownership of their own development. And remember, feedback works best when it is regular, timely, and balanced—notice the wins, not just the gaps.
Tip 3: Set Clear Goals Together
Coaching is most effective when it is focused. Work with your team member to set clear, realistic goals. Use simple frameworks like SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) to bring structure to your sessions. Ask them what they want to achieve and why it matters to them. When people are part of setting their own goals, they are more likely to stay motivated and committed. Keep reviewing progress together and celebrate the small wins along the way.
Tip 4: Use Real-World Scenarios
No one learns in a vacuum. Bring coaching to life by using real examples from work. Chat about a tricky customer, a new project, or a recent setback and explore what could be done differently. Role-play can also be a fun way to practise new skills in a safe environment. The more relevant your coaching is to daily work, the more it will stick and make an impact.
Tip 5: Don’t Fix—Empower!
It’s tempting to jump in with solutions, especially if you have been there and done it before. But the best coaches resist this urge. Instead, empower your team to find their own answers. Try saying, “What options do you see?” or “How would you tackle this if you had a blank slate?” People grow in confidence when they solve their own problems. Your job is to support, challenge, and encourage—not to do it for them.
Tip 6: Keep Coaching Fun and Down-to-Earth
Let’s face it, no one wants another boring meeting. Bring energy, humour, and positivity to your coaching sessions. Share your own learning moments, admit when you don’t have all the answers, and keep things relaxed. Coaching is about people, not processes—so enjoy the journey together. Sometimes the best breakthroughs come from a good laugh and a cuppa!
Bring Coaching Skills to Your Workplace
Coaching is not just for formal sessions—it is a mindset you can use every day, in quick chats and longer catch-ups. By asking great questions, listening well, and empowering others, you help your team grow and succeed. Want to build your coaching confidence and learn even more practical tools? Our Coaching Skills Training Course is packed with hands-on activities, real-world scenarios, and down-to-earth tips you can use straight away. Find out more and book your spot here.
