Coachability

Coaching has been proven to be an extremely amazing resource in boosting one’s chances of success at work and in life. That said, it does no good if one is not willing to learn and adjust their behaviors. This is where coachability – the ability to take feedback with openness and willingness – comes into play. By adopting this trait, you open yourself up to endless possibilities that will enable you to take your career and life to the next level.

Quick links

What is Coachability?

Coachability is the willingness to be open to feedback and act upon it. It is the ability to take in, understand, and apply new ideas and methods that are presented by a coach/ mentor – or even anyone in your life. This type of openness sets up the foundation for rapid growth and development both professionally and personally.

A coachable person is one who is eager to listen, take feedback in stride, and make positive changes based on others’ input. They understand their own limitations – as well as the value of learning from others. No matter how difficult it is, they stay receptive to new perspectives – and are pleased to adjust their behavior to make the most of any situation.

coachability

Why is Coachability Important?

Coachability is an incredibly desirable trait to have when striving for success. It allows one to be open to new ideas, which in turn helps them grow, develop, and acquire the skills necessary to move forward. Aside from that, it also encourages collaboration – as people are more likely to work with one who is willing to learn from each other.

Below are a few among the various benefits of coachability in the workplace:

  • Boosted productivity: Being coachable makes it easier for one to learn and experiment with new approaches, resulting in greater efficiency.
  • Developed problem-solving skills: Openness to feedback enables one to identify and tackle issues more effectively, thus improving their problem-solving skills.
  • Enhanced team dynamics: Coachability encourages collaboration and strengthens the bond between team members.
  • Improved career opportunities: Being coachable makes one a desirable candidate for any job or promotion.
  • Increased mental and emotional well-being: An open-minded attitude leads to greater self-awareness, confidence, and emotional stability. When one is capable of adjusting swiftly to changes, he/she becomes more potent in combating stress and anxiety.

Coachability Examples

Being coachable means being open to change and, more importantly, taking action when needed. Here are a few examples of what it looks like in practice:

  • Admitting when you are wrong: Instead of arguing or defending your point, a coachable person will admit their mistake and focus on finding an effective solution.
  • Listening carefully to advice: Coachable people pay attention to the advice offered by others – and take into consideration all perspectives before making decisions.
  • Taking initiative: They take the first step towards learning something new and actively seek out opportunities for growth and development.
  • Asking questions: They ask meaningful questions that help them understand the material better or refine their skills.
  • Giving feedback: They provide constructive suggestions to their colleagues, peers, or mentors – and take into consideration any advice given in return.

be coachable

Why is It So Hard to Embrace Coachability?

It is natural to feel intimidated when faced with something new, especially if it means having to change your behavior. At the end of the day, people’s intrinsic tendency is to become defensive and reject feedback – no matter how well-intent it is. However, remember that embracing coachability doesn’t mean giving up your own opinions and values. It simply means being open to other perspectives and accepting feedback – in order to reap the many benefits that come with it.

Coachability is not about being perfect – it’s about growth and self-improvement. The key to embracing this trait is putting yourself out there – and allowing yourself the opportunity to learn from others. This means being open to feedback and criticism without letting ego or fear get in the way. While the process can be challenging at times, the results are well worth it!

Read more: 20 Bad Habits in the Workplace to Break

7 Tips on How to Improve Your Coachability

Coachability is a strength that can be developed and improved over time. It all comes down to two key components: self-awareness and a willingness to make changes.

To become more coachable, you must first focus on becoming aware of yourself – what motivates you, how your mood affects your decisions, etc. – as well as understanding the areas in which you need improvement. Once that awareness has been achieved, you must then commit yourself to make necessary changes to visualize your desired goals.

Here are some tips on how to improve your coachability:

7 Tips on How to Improve Your Coachability

1. Increase your self-awareness

Take a few moments each day to reflect on what you have achieved and where you could improve. Notice how your behaviors impact others and take note of any patterns or habits that do not serve you. For example, do you often get defensive when faced with criticism? Do you struggle to ask for and accept help from others?

2. Develop an attitude of learning

Change your mindset so that you are actively seeking out opportunities for growth and development in all areas of life. This should make you become more coachable – as it encourages openness to new ideas and feedback from mentors or coaches.

3. Take initiative in seeking feedback

Ask for feedback from mentors or colleagues and be open to constructive criticism. Take their advice as an opportunity to improve, rather than a personal attack.

4. Ask questions – a lot

The best way to learn something new is to ask questions. The more you understand the material, the easier it will be to apply it in your own life. Aim to ask meaningful and thought-provoking questions, so that you may gain a deeper understanding of what you are learning.

Another thing to remember is to always seek clarification on anything you don’t understand or don’t agree with. The purpose here is to ensure that you are grasping the concepts correctly and applying them in the best way.

5. Practice active listening

When receiving feedback from others, make sure that you are actively listening – rather than waiting for an opportunity to respond or defend yourself. Pay attention to their words and be open to considering them before making any decisions.

6. Make time for reflection

Reflection is a key part of improving your coachability, as it allows you to identify areas where you can improve and take action to make necessary changes. Set aside some time each day or week – either alone or with a mentor – to review your progress and reflect on what you have learned. This will help maintain an attitude of learning, as well as ensure that you remain motivated and focused on reaching your goals.

7. Remain flexible

Be open to new ideas and changes, even if they challenge your routines or beliefs. Remaining flexible leads to greater opportunities for learning and growth – which is essential in becoming a more coachable person.

Read more: Not Listening – The Silent Killer in the Workplace

Coachability Quotes

“Without challenge, there is no progress.”

Unknown

“The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.”

Socrates

“It’s not what happens to you, but how you respond that matters.”

Epictetus

“It doesn’t matter where you are coming from, all that matters is where you are going.”

Brian Tracy

“Having the courage to change your mind takes tremendous strength and faith in yourself.”

Unknown

“Successful people do what unsuccessful people don’t want to do. Don’t wish it were easier; wish you were better.”

Jim Rohn

“Life is a journey, not a destination.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

Read more: 50 Push Yourself Quotes to Inspire Success

be coachable

Final Thoughts

Coachability is a strength rather than a weakness – it encourages self-awareness, openness to feedback, and a willingness to make necessary changes. It is not about being perfect but rather embracing the opportunity for growth and development. With the right attitude and commitment, one can improve their coachability over time – allowing them to achieve greater success both personally and professionally.

Other resources you may be interested in:

ITD Vietnam is part of ITD World – a top ranked provider of Talent & Leadership Development, Executive Coaching, Corporate Training & Consulting services.

ITD Vietnam

FINDING THE ARTICLE USEFUL? SHARE IT NOW!

Facebook
LinkedIn

READY FOR THE NEXT STEPS?

Let's see how our coaching, training & leadership development solutions may bring a difference to you and your organization.

Let's keep in touch

Stay up to date with the latest insights into Coaching, Leadership & HR Management - as well as with ITD's upcoming leadership training programs and workshops.