Last time on the blog, we talked about CREATING CONTROLLED CONFLICT. We hinted a bit at today’s topic when we addressed being ready to step in when conflict gets out of hand. There’s a reason coaching is such a hot subject these days. Great leaders don’t become leaders by themselves. The best leaders have had someone in their corner ready to step in when they need some help. Today, we’ll look at why and how coaching can help build a culture that makes leaders. 

Coaching Helps

According to the Institute of Coaching, some of the basic benefits of coaching include a more self-reliant team, who take greater responsibility and accountability for their actions, work better with others, and communicate more effectively. 

You Are Qualified

The key to building a culture that builds leaders is to take on the role of a coach, but many people shy away from the job because they don’t feel qualified. Imposter Syndrome (or feeling like a fraud and unqualified) is a real issue and can keep you from helping your team grow. To fight those feelings of unworthiness or fear, ImposterSyndrome.com suggests that leaders separate feelings from facts, focus on the positive, don’t be afraid to ask for help or not have an answer, and (sometimes) fake it ’til you make it! 

Coach, Don’t Do

Here’s the tricky part of coaching, you have to step off to the sidelines and let the players do all the work. Coaches train their players. They create strategies. They offer advice and suggest movements. But there’s one thing they don’t do. They don’t play. They leave the actual performance to their team. It’s a difficult skill to learn, but coaches need to step back and let their crew make all the moves. So, let your leaders lead. Offer advice, help build strategies, plan, and then allow them to do their own thing. 

Get Coached

Sometimes even coaches can use a little coaching! Don’t worry. Volunteer U has got you covered. Check out our new Coaching Email Series. Get emails jam-packed with valuable content for you to take your volunteer team to the next level. Whether you’re just starting or managing a team that’s been together for years, it’s always a good idea to take a step back and create a strategy that applies to your current situation and environment. This Coaching Series will help you do just that.