We’ve all heard it: “You need to build a coaching culture.”
And for good reason. Coaching cultures lead to stronger teams, better conversations, and real growth—for individuals and the organization as a whole. But often, we’re told we should be coaching more without being shown what that actually looks like in day-to-day interactions. And when you’re already juggling deadlines, meetings, and responsibilities, it can feel like just one more vague expectation.
The good news? You don’t need a formal program or a new title to start shifting the culture around you. Even small, intentional changes in how you show up can make a real impact.
Here are a few ways to start:
Listen with Curiosity
Try using phrases like “What I’m hearing is…” or “It sounds like…” to reflect back what someone’s saying. It shows you’re truly listening—and that their perspective matters. This kind of listening builds trust and opens the door for honest conversation.
Ask Powerful questions that open things up
Skip the advice for a minute and get curious. Questions like “What have you tried so far?” or “What would be possible if you hit that goal?” can spark new thinking and help people find their own best next step. That’s where real growth happens.
Support ownership
Encourage people to take the wheel in their own development. Questions like “What else could you have done?” or “How might your response have added to the tension?” invite reflection without judgment. Over time, this helps build accountability and confidence.
Work toward clear goals
If you’re helping someone move forward, set SMART goals together—specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. Talk through what might get in the way and what support they’ll need. Clear goals give direction and momentum.
Make it safe to grow
Create an environment where people feel safe being honest and taking risks. Celebrate progress, recognize effort, and make space for work that feels meaningful. When people feel supported, they’re more willing to lean in and learn.
One Step at a time
You don’t have to change everything overnight—and you don’t need a leadership title to make a difference. Shifting toward a coaching culture often starts with one person choosing to show up a little differently. That person could be you.
What’s one small shift you could try this week to support a more coaching-centered culture on your team?
Developing a coaching culture is a key component of our third foundational class, Our Community Transforms,* where leaders learn and apply coaching techniques to support the growth and development of their team members. To learn more, visit our Learning Opportunities page.
*Note: You must be an alumnus of Our Community Listens to register for Our Community Transforms.
