Coach in Real Time—The Playful Power-Up Edition

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Who says coaching has to be stiff and serious? Real growth happens in the everyday hustle! Think of yourself as a coach who sprinkles wisdom like confetti throughout the day, not just during formal sit-downs. Let’s break down how to make coaching part of your team’s daily rhythm—and have some fun doing it.

·       Drop quick, positive nudges: Seize those teachable moments right after a team huddle or during a coffee break. Maybe someone just nailed a presentation—ask, “What felt different about today’s pitch?” Or if a challenge pops up, try, “How would you tackle this if you were the client?” A single uplifting question can spark reflection and set off a chain reaction of growth!

·       Give them a front-row seat: Bring teammates into the action! Let someone shadow you during a big client call. Say, “Keep an eye on how we negotiate pricing—take notes!” Afterward, grab five minutes to unpack what they noticed. These backstage passes turn into true learning when you talk it out together.

·       Build their dream team: You don’t have to be the only coach. Play matchmaker! Pair a new hire with a seasoned pro for a brainstorming session, or set up a quick intro to an expert in another department. Expanding their network boosts skills and confidence—and hey, everyone loves making new connections.

·       Let them take the lead: Sometimes, the best coaching move is stepping back. Cue up opportunities for your rising stars to shine—give them the reins on a project or let them present to leadership. Even if their next big adventure takes them beyond your team, championing their growth is what real coaching’s all about.

·       Coach in their natural habitat: Ditch your office! Head to the shop floor, join their sales call, or pop by their workspace or customer site. Ask, “How did you decide on that solution?” or “What would you try differently next time?” These in-the-moment questions draw out expertise and build judgment where it counts.

·       Be the example: Show up with curiosity, a growth mindset, and a willingness to own your mistakes. If you ask for feedback on your own work, your team will feel empowered to do the same. Remember, enthusiasm is contagious—so is a willingness to learn!

With these playful strategies, you’ll make coaching part of your team’s DNA—energizing everyone to level up, one small moment at a time.

 To your greater impact and well-being!

Peter Mclees, Leadership Coach, Trainer and Performance Consultant
SMART DEVELOPMENT

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Interested in learning how to develop your organization's leadership capability, culture, and employee engagement? We begin with a collaborative discovery process identifying your unique needs and business issues. To request an interview with Peter Mclees please 

contact: Email: petercmclees@gmail.com  or  Mobile: 323-854-1713

Smart Development has an exceptional track record helping service providers, ports, sales teams, restaurants, stores, distribution centers, food production facilities, wealth management services, third-party maintenance providers, real estate services, nonprofits, government agencies and other businesses create a strong culture, leadership bench strength, coaching skills and the teamwork necessary for growth.

Having worked with several companies throughout their growth cycle, we have valuable insights and strategies that would help any late stage startup, small or medium sized company achieve sustained growth and prosperity.