Communicating Effectively

Communicating effectively is one of the keys to success in coaching and to building positive relationships with the players and their parents and caregivers. Ongoing communication often deals with little problems before they become big problems.

However, good communication is much more than just talking. The way you deal with people, how you listen, how you ask questions, your tone of voice and your body language all sends messages to your players. Many coaches tend to be good at sending messages, but need to improve their skills in receiving messages.

Communicating effectively with your players

Greet your players warmly by their name
Wear appropriate dress
Speak clearly
Listen carefully
Give and receive feedback:
- Be positive and encouraging
- Be specific so the player is clear about what you expect
- Focus on behaviour or actions that can be changed
- Use words the players can understand - keep it simple for beginners
- Encourage your players to give you feedback about how their performance “felt”
- Ask questions to show that their contribution is important
- Ask open-ended questions that make your players think, take responsibility and become self aware.
Be aware of your body language.

Communicating across cutures

Be aware of cultural differences in communicating with your players.

If you are unsure about how to communicate with a player from a different culture, ask somebody for advice.

Communicating with others

Parents, caregivers and others can have a big impact on how players feel about sport.

It is important to establish a positive relationship with supporters right from the start of the season.

A good way to start is to hold a meeting to:

Introduce yourself
Discuss the season ahead
Set expectations
Thank them for support
Allocate roles if required
Establish your expectations of supporters’ behaviour while watching a competition or game.

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Communicating Effectively

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