Think coaching only happens in a one-on-one session? Think again. Every meeting is an opportunity to coach — to create clarity, build trust, and empower your team to take ownership.
Meetings are a regular part of our work lives — but too often, they feel like time sinks instead of springboards. What if, instead of draining energy, your meetings could empower and coach your team toward better outcomes?
Here’s how.
🕒 Before the Meeting: Coach by Setting the Stage
1. Clarify the “Why”
Define and communicate the purpose of the meeting. A clear “why” motivates engagement and gives everyone a reason to show up with intent.
2. Invite with Intention
Only include team members who are truly needed — decision-makers, contributors, or key stakeholders. Empowerment starts with respecting people’s time.
3. Send an Agenda Early
Sharing an agenda allows participants to prepare and come ready to contribute. That’s how coaching happens — by giving space for thoughtful input, not catching people off guard.
💬 During the Meeting: Coach Through Facilitation
1. Start Strong
Reaffirm the purpose, outcomes, and guidelines for engagement. Ask the team if they’d like to add to the rules — e.g., “Be present,” “No judgment,” “Keep it confidential.” This builds psychological safety.
2. Stay Focused, Stay Flexible
Stick to the agenda, but remain adaptive. Coaching is about guiding people, not controlling them. A flexible leader keeps objectives clear while valuing input.
3. Empower the Conversation
Keep discussions unified. If side topics arise, park them respectfully. Ask for permission before adjusting direction — it shows you value shared ownership.
✅ After the Meeting: Reinforce and Reflect
1. Show Gratitude
Thank your team for their presence and contributions. Ask what went well and what could be improved. This closes the loop and builds continuous improvement.
2. Clarify Next Steps
Share meeting notes and action points with clear owners and deadlines. Empowerment is incomplete without accountability.
3. Reflect, Don’t Just Move On
Did the meeting achieve its purpose? What would make the next one better? Coaching means learning — even from our meetings.
🔁 From Meeting Management to Team Empowerment
Every meeting is a micro-moment for coaching: to model clarity, invite voices, and inspire ownership. When meetings are led with this mindset, they don’t just get things done — they build empowered, accountable teams.
👥 Want to coach your team more effectively through meetings and beyond?
💬 Book a complimentary 30-minute session with our ENiBLE coaches and let’s explore what’s possible.
