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The Two Minute Guide to Communication Skills
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The Two Minute Guide to Communication Skills
The art of communication is to give and receive information effectively. For best results, communication should be a two way process, as coach you should give instruction, but as importantly you should listen. If you are not clear in your instructions or commands, problems will occur as players switch off as they don't understand. From the earliest stages players should be encouraged to have their say, share their ideas and thoughts, as this should help you to maintain a positive relationship with your team. Here are some guidelines to assist: ask plenty of questions, establish what motivates your players, what do they enjoy, dislike, what do they feel they need to improve on...
listen actively to the players, parents and any other support you may have. Use eye contact, non verbal and verbal signs to demonstrate you are listening.
KISS, keep it short & simple
avoid language the players might not understand, e.g. technical jargon
get on a level with the players (I'm 6' 1', so I get on my knees when addressing very young players!)
provide quality feedback. Be positive and build on strengths, rather than dwell on shortcomings.
use your voice well. Don't speak in a monotone voice, add emphasis and emotion to key words or points
have a happy face, smile and make eye contact. When you need to be serious players and parents will quickly get the picture when they see the change!
have a laugh. Show that you are human and you do have a sense of humour, believe me you'll need it from time to time!To some coaches communication comes naturally, to others they need to work on it, therefore try in your training sessions and addresses to the parents a variety of styles. Remember, if you are not effective in your communication, the valuable knowledge and experiences that you have may never make there way on to the players you coach.
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