Communicating with the Coach

It is inevitable that there will be times when you will want to talk privately with your coach.  These discussions can be uncomfortable to think about, but procrastination rarely brings you closer to a solution.  Think of the best possible outcome, then plan a strategy to reach it.

Approach with respect – Don’t try to “win an argument.”

To avoid a reaction of defensiveness from the coach, it may be best to make an appointment to speak in the future.  Present the coach with the subject of what you wish to discuss and ask for a face to face meeting within the next week.  This reduces the chance that the coach will feel cornered.  That would certainly not produce the desired result.  It may be best to make your approach with an email.  That will allow you to summarize your feelings clearly in a brief note.  Also, the coach can begin to compose a thoughtful response rather than attempt to manage on the fly.  In addition, it will then be obvious to the coach that you have given the idea some thought and it’s not a knee-jerk reaction to the game that just ended.

Do your best to “approach” rather than “confront” your coach.

Remember, a positive resolution is the “Win-Win” that you are after.