Coaching Is the Secret to High-Impact Leadership

Over my years in leadership, I’ve come to realize something that may not always be obvious: the most effective leaders don’t just lead—they coach.

When you hear the word “coach,” you might think of someone on the sidelines with a whistle, but in leadership, coaching is something much deeper. It’s about bringing out the best in others—not just through instruction, but through connection, clarity, accountability, and belief. And if you want to lead at the highest level, you’ve got to learn to lead like a coach.

Coaches Hold People Accountable—with Heart

Accountability isn’t about punishment—it’s about ownership. Great coaches don’t shy away from holding their people to high standards, but they do it in a way that keeps dignity intact. That’s why one of my golden rules is: “Praise in public, correct in private.”

Let’s say someone on your team misses a deadline or fumbles a responsibility. A coach doesn’t blast them in front of the squad. Instead, they pull them aside, address the issue with clarity, and let them know, “I expect more from you because I believe you’re capable of more.” That changes the conversation. That’s coaching.

Coaches Encourage and Uplift

Everyone hits walls. Everyone feels stuck. A great coach knows when to apply pressure—and when to lift someone up. I’ve had leaders in my life who said just the right words at the right time: “You’ve got this.” “I see something in you.”That kind of encouragement is fuel—it pushes people to keep going when they want to quit.

One of the best things you can do as a leader is write a quick note, send a text, or pull someone aside and say, “Hey, I noticed the way you handled that situation. That was impressive. Keep it up.” It takes 60 seconds and it can shift someone’s entire mindset.

Coaches Bring Clarity to Chaos

Leadership often happens in messy, fast-moving situations. That’s where coaching shines. A coach sees the bigger picture—and helps others see it, too. When things are unclear, people get frustrated. A coach brings things back to center.

For example, in a briefing before a big operation, instead of just listing off instructions, take the time to explain why the strategy matters. What’s the goal? What’s the bigger mission? A coach explains the “why” so that everyone can better execute the “how.”

Coaches Believe in People—Even Before They Believe in Themselves

Some of the most meaningful moments in my leadership journey came when someone believed in me more than I believed in myself. That belief can be transformational.

Maybe there’s someone who shows promise, but they’re still figuring things out. As a leader, take the time to mentor them. Invite them to sit in on higher-level meetings. Ask for their input on decisions. Let them know they matter. That belief becomes a foundation they’ll build confidence on.

Coaching Grows You, Too

Here’s something we don’t talk about enough: when you coach others well, you grow too. Coaching forces you to listen better, lead with empathy, and be more intentional with your actions. You become more accountable to your own values and you stop relying on authority alone to lead—instead, you lead with influence, connection, and trust.

Final Thoughts

If you want to improve as a leader, start by asking yourself: Am I coaching my people or just managing them? Because there’s a big difference. Coaching is what turns good teams into great ones. It’s what builds trust, loyalty, and excellence.

Leadership isn’t just about getting the job done. It’s about growing people while getting the job done. And when you step into the role of a coach, you don’t just elevate others—you elevate yourself.

- Dean Crisp