Why Managers Fear Coaching Employees
"Coaching - which can help managers talk with subordinates about their developmental needs - absolutely affects the relationship positively." - Time Magazine
Why do some managers embrace coaching while others fear it, worried about damaging employees' development and their own egos? Understanding how to coach employees effectively can make a significant difference in their growth and your leadership skills.
Coaching.
The word "alone" has been falsely touted as the solution to all workplace interpersonal issues. Many leaders misunderstand coaching, despite its proven success in top companies. There are to date, a variety of forms and definitions of coaching styles and philosophies.
Managers are often confused by basic but critical questions that are overlooked or unknown.
What is coaching?
Why can't I just tell them what to do?
How do I effectively coach employees?
What if they don't take the coaching?
When should we be coaching?
Who should we "not" be coaching?
How do we effectively measure the coaching engagement?
These are all valid questions that you should address before any coaching engagement begins. While some progressive companies are embracing coaching, most industries still have a long way to go before reaching a widespread coaching culture.
In reality, that's okay.
I am not here to stand on a soap-box and preach coaching to every company. I'm committed to supporting managers who face daily coaching challenges and may hesitate to confide in their superiors. Knowing how to coach employees effectively is a crucial skill for managers to develop.
6 Reasons Why Managers Resist Coaching
Lack of Support (from Org, Manager, Employee): Managers need support from both their direct manager and the organization to coach effectively. When companies lack a strong coaching culture, managers are left to coach without adequate support, training, or resources, even when better development methods exist.
Lack the Belief / Mindset: Managers often resist coaching due to a negative mindset. They may think: "I don't have all the answers," "It will take too long," or "I won't see results." This self-doubt can hinder their willingness to coach. For further insights, check out this concise HBR article: Overcoming The Toughest Coaching Challenges.
Lack of Commitment (from their employee): Poorly planned engagements often lead to defensiveness, uncertainty, and confusion.
Lack of Skills: Empowering individuals with the right skills is crucial for successful coaching. Invest in coaching development through online courses, reputable organizations, or certified programs. Align your coaching style with your company's culture for optimal results. Knowing how to coach employees is essential for managers to develop these skills effectively.
Lack of Structure: Lacking SMART goals hinders productivity and measurement. Managers without a clear engagement process will struggle to find the right time and cadence for employee interaction. Define a clear process upfront.
Lack of Time: Oh yes, the ol' "I don't have enough time" which I will forgo debunking this statement and point you to hundreds of articles on this topic including (12 Morning Rituals Successful People Add To Their Daily Routine & 25 Ways To Get More Done In The Workplace). Coaching takes time, but it doesn't have to be a huge time commitment. While managers are busy, making time for coaching is about prioritization and creating a supportive company culture. If your company doesn't value coaching, it will be harder to find the time. Check out this CBS News article on Excuses Managers Give For Not Coaching.
How to Coach Employees Effectively: The Importance of Coaching
"A coach is someone who can give correction without resentment" - John Wooden
Final thoughts:
Coaching is not easy, in fact it's quite challenging but it's also an incredibly rewarding and enriching experience. Oh, and fun - yes, fun. Don't whisper the word 'coaching' for fear of its label. Sure, there is proactive and reactive coaching but when executed effectively, a positive outcome is possible. Coaching helps us overcome our fear of failure, allowing us to grow and develop both ourselves and others. You can learn how to coach employees effectively by implementing these principles.
"All personal breakthroughs begin with a change in beliefs." - Tony Robbins