What makes a coach good at what they do is not always how they convey their knowledge to their pupils but how they listen to them! Many times, communication is more effective when the focus is on listening instead of talking. True listening is more than just hearing the words. It requires engagement and empathy for the expression of feelings and emotions. It is very important to most female players that they are heard by their coach. It can be frustrating for a coach when they feel like the player is ‘answering back’ but if they are able to listen to the problems and confusion at hand, the conversation becomes enjoyable, and questions are better answered.
WHAT MAKES A GREAT LISTENER?
WITHOLD JUDGEMENT: Active listening requires an open mind. As a listener and a leader, be open to new ideas, new perspectives, and new possibilities when practicing active listening. Even when good listeners have strong views, they suspend judgement, hold any criticisms and avoid interruptions like arguing or selling their point right away.
CLARIFY: Don’t be shy to ask questions about any issues that are ambiguous or unclear when engaging in active listening. As the listener, if you have doubt or confusion about what your pupil said, say something like. “Let me see if I’m clear. Are you talking about….? Or ‘Wait a minute. I didn’t follow you”.
SUMMARIZE: Restating key themes as the conversation proceeds confirms and solidifies your grasp of the other persons point of view. It also helps both parties to be clear on mutual responsibilities and follow-up. Briefly summarize what you have understood while practicing active listening and ask the other person to do the same.
