fluid leadership, Coaching in the flow of work

How to Practice Fluid Leadership: Coaching in the Flow of Work

Coaching in the Flow of Work—it’s a simple concept that has the potential to transform how you lead and consequently your team’s performance.   

At its core, coaching in the flow of work is the practice of offering real-time guidance, support, and feedback within the context of daily tasks and challenges. It breaks away from the conventional model of formal, scheduled coaching sessions, opting instead for an approach that is more fluid and integrated with everyday work. This method allows leaders and managers to provide immediate feedback and support when it’s most relevant and impactful.  

Putting it Into Practice

Sean Frontz, Global Practice Leader—Sales Performance at PDG, shares insights on finding time to coach your team by coaching in the flow of work. 

Importance of Coaching in the Flow of Work

Implementing coaching in the flow of work is essential for several reasons. First, it leads to increased engagement from team members. When coaching is seamlessly integrated into work processes, individuals are more likely to feel valued and supported, boosting their motivation and engagement. Secondly, it cultivates a highly motivated team environment. Continuous, on-the-spot coaching addresses problems and opportunities as they arise, keeping teams agile and focused. Trust is also enhanced, as team members feel their leaders are genuinely invested in their development and success. Ultimately, these factors contribute to better overall performance, as teams are continually learning, adjusting, and improving. 

Incorporating Coaching into Daily Activities

Incorporating coaching into the flow of work involves adopting several key strategies:  

• On-demand coaching allows managers to offer guidance when team members specifically request it, addressing immediate needs or questions. 
• Problem-solving coaching happens as issues arise, helping teams navigate challenges efficiently and effectively. 
• Everyday coaching integrates small, teachable moments into daily interactions, fostering ongoing development.  

To implement these strategies effectively, leaders should: 

1. Communicate expectations clearly and create an environment where open dialogue is encouraged. This ensures that team members feel safe seeking out coaching when they need it. 
2. Develop active listening skills, learn to ask insightful questions, and understand the best ways to provide constructive feedback. This helps in identifying coaching opportunities and addressing them effectively. 
3. Schedule regular check-ins while also being proactive in seeking out coaching moments throughout the day. Regular touchpoints, coupled with spontaneous coaching, offer a balanced approach to development. 
4. Regularly assess your coaching effectiveness by asking for feedback and be willing to adjust your methods as needed. This shows a commitment to continuous improvement, both for yourself and your team.  

Coaching in the flow of work represents a shift towards a more integrated, responsive, and dynamic approach to team development. By moving away from the conventional, scheduled coaching sessions and embracing a more spontaneous style, leaders can foster an environment of continuous learning and improvement. The benefits of this approach are clear: more engaged and motivated teams, increased trust, and ultimately, enhanced performance. By incorporating on-demand coaching, problem-solving coaching, and everyday coaching into their leadership style, managers can effectively guide their teams through the challenges and opportunities of the modern workplace.