The best possible leaders are always highly effective communicators. The great coach is always going to understand that most situations are not about what is known. Instead, they realize that the way in which they communicate is going to empower other people.
In sports communication is very important, just like in practically all aspects of your life. The relationship that is created between a coach and its players can easily make or break the entire team. Just think about what Ryan Grigson said. He declared there were communication problems during his time working for the Colts. We all know how things went with the team and communication might be a reason why.
If you are a coach and you want to be sure that you properly communicate with your players, we have good tips for you. Always think about how you can improve communication skills and do move past just the players. Everyone you talk to should clearly understand what you mean.
Show You Care
This is something that the best coaches quickly realize. Players will not care if the coach is really knowledgeable if he does not show that he actually cares about the players. If you want to effectively communicate with players it is vital that you know them. You want to ask questions that are about the person, not about the player. As you do this you show that there is a desire to know more about the player as a unique individual. After the player feels that the coach actually cares, trust starts to creep in. Players have to trust their coaches as being leaders. An athlete that trusts the coach will pay more attention and will be more open towards the indications given.
Honesty
Honesty truly is the best possible policy when referring to effective communication. This also applies to communicating with your players. It is difficult from time to time because coaches do want their players to like them. It can be a challenge to be honest and still be liked. Even so, remember that honest feedback that is combined with grace is going to create a truly meaningful relationship. Coaches need to communicate with players and need to give advice that helps them improve. When you just say what players want to hear you cannot be effective as a coach.
Listening
The last important thing that we should highlight is listening. The best coaches are always very active listeners. It is never a good approach to ask for feedback and then just not care about what is said. Keep in mind that some of the very best feedback you will ever receive as a coach is going to come from the players. When you always give the impression that you have answers and do not remain open to suggestions, trust goes down.
Active listening will make it so much easier to communicate with your players and will show that you value input. As players feel empowered they are going to talk more and the entire culture of the coaching program will be stronger.