The problem with calling a client or team member ‘uncoachable’
If you’re a leader or a coach, beware the temptation to label a team member or client as ‘uncoachable’.
If you’re a coach, the truth is they may not be a good fit for you. Your relational dynamic with this person may lack chemistry, or you may not inspire them due to a lack of resonance in the relationship.
If you’re a leader, one challenge is that it can be difficult to be objective when coaching direct reports. It’s also challenging for the team member to be completely candid and get out of wanting to please or appease their leader.
Another challenge is that if there has been any friction in your relationship with this team member in the past, it’s almost impossible for there to be the objectivity needed to get the most from coaching.
As professional coaches, we are trained to look and listen for the potential of our clients. It goes hand in hand with the practise of coaching presence. As soon as we put someone in a box by calling them ‘uncoachable’, we are limiting their potentiality.
Sure, some people may not be ready for coaching and ready for change or transformation at this point in time. Working with people who are resistant to change calls for us to be respectful and get curious to find out if their resistance is something they are willing to look at and work with. In my experience, when resistance is met with empathy, for myself and for clients, it can really free us up, making someone who was deemed ‘uncoachable’ before, now completely coachable.
The beauty of working with ‘difficult’ clients or team members is that this is where we get to practise different approaches to engage them. It’s never a wasted endeavour. Experimenting with creative approaches to try and reach someone in a different way will grow you as a coach and as a leader in ways that working with easier people will not.
I’ve heard so many leaders tell me coaching has completely changed how they lead for the better, which is why I’m a passionate advocate for a leader as coach approach. When leaders become better coaches, they can truly help their team members realise their potential instead of being part of the problem.
I love this work, and helping leaders and teams with change and transformation overcome their resistance and roadblocks.
What about you? What are your thoughts on this topic?
And if this is something you need help with as a leader, reach out and book in a free 20 minute conversation so we can discuss your challenges and see how I can support you and your team.
