Many leaders think they’re coaching their people — but more often than not, they’re giving advice, solving problems, or jumping in to fix things. While those intentions come from a good place, they can actually limit your team’s growth, creativity, and accountability.
In this solo episode of Inspirational Leadership, I’m diving into the coaching skills every leader needs, but most don’t use — and how you can start applying them right away.
You don’t need to be a certified coach to use these skills. You just need to slow down, be curious, and make small, intentional shifts in how you lead conversations.
- The difference between coaching and advising — and why most leaders confuse the two
- Four simple coaching skills that instantly strengthen trust and engagement
- A practical framework (GROW) you can use in any one-on-one conversation
- Powerful coaching questions that help your team think for themselves
- How to create a culture of ownership and accountability through coaching
🧭 Coaching Skills Most Leaders Overlook
1. Ask Powerful Questions
Instead of solving the problem for someone, ask questions that spark insight.
Try:
- “What’s the real challenge here for you?”
- “What options do you see?”
- “What outcome would feel like success?”
2. Listen to Understand, Not to Respond
Hold space. Use silence. Reflect back what you’ve heard. Listening this way builds trust and psychological safety.
3. Help People See Possibilities
Encourage innovation by asking, “What’s another way you could approach this?” or “If nothing were holding you back, what would you try?”
4. Encourage Reflection and Action
End with accountability: “What’s one step you’ll take before our next check-in?”
🧩 A Simple Coaching Framework: The GROW Model
Use the GROW model to structure any coaching conversation:
- Goal: What do you want to achieve?
- Reality: What’s happening now?
- Options: What could you try?
- Will: What will you commit to doing next?
This framework helps you move from vague discussions to clear commitments while empowering your team to take ownership of their growth.
🔍 Final Thoughts
Coaching isn’t about having all the answers — it’s about helping others find theirs. When leaders shift from telling to asking, they unlock potential, deepen trust, and create workplaces where people feel seen, capable, and motivated.
In your next one-on-one, resist the urge to jump in with advice. Ask two open-ended questions first, and notice what changes in the conversation.
Listen to the podcast here:
Watch the video here:
Let’s Connect:
If this episode spoke to you, I’d love to hear from you!
And if you’re interested in exploring ways we can work together—through leadership coaching, team workshops, or speaking at your next event—please reach out. You can reach me at kristen@kristenharcourt.com
