Coaches that provide leadership to athletes enable them to reach their full potential. Without a well-defined leadership style, athletes will not be able to effectively channel their efforts into desired results. 

Coaches that are unsure of themselves are likely to promote an environment that does not encourage athletes to define their purpose and role on the team. Likewise, it becomes difficult for young athletes to manufacture self-esteem when their coach does not radiate confidence.

What kind of coach should I be?
Your coaching style should be predicated on your personality, team culture, the gender you are coaching, and the sport. Coaches should develop a coaching style that is compatible with their personality.

Are leaders born or made?
It has long been debated that individuals must be born with the intangible qualities to become leaders and that those who are not born with these qualities can never lead successfully.

As it turns out, there are many things that one can do to improve their leadership skills. In addition, there has been a “backwards” notion of what one most possess to be a leader.

Some people talk themselves out of pursuing leadership positions for reasons such as: being shy or soft spoken, being a minority, or having a physical disability. There have been many examples of leaders that have come from all different walks of life. Never talk yourself out of being a leader just because you do not fit someone’s stereotype.

Importance of feedback.
It is important for coaches to seek feedback from their athletes. This provides valuable information on how the coach can improve the management of the team and can instill a sense of teamwork, respect, and camaraderie.

Western Michigan University communications professor Peter G. Northouse writes in his book Leadership, “It is essential that the leadership of the team be assessed along with the other criteria of team excellence. Such feedback is essential to the health and effectiveness of the team.”  

Coaches need to listen to their players to get a different perspective. This does not mean that the coach should always heed the players advice or bend to their demands; the coach is the decision maker and must keep the interests of the team at mind.

 Tips for improving leadership

• Determine clear goals and communicate them with the team 
• Include all members of the team in the decision making process 
• Recognize and reward good behavior
• Periodically remind athletes of team goals to keep them focused

One of the best places to start when trying to improve your leadership skills is to spend some time determining what your personality traits are. Identifying these traits can help you hone in on your leadership style and help you to focus on what other traits you want to cultivate to improve your leadership skills.