HBR Guide to Being a Great Boss

CHAPTER 11

You Can’t Be a Great Manager If You’re Not a Good Coach

by Monique Valcour

Strangely, at most companies, coaching isn’t part of what managers are formally expected to do. Even though research makes it clear that employees and job candidates alike value learning and career development above most other aspects of a job, many managers don’t see it as an important part of their role. Yet 70% of employee learning and development happens on the job, not through formal training programs. If line managers aren’t supportive and actively involved, employee growth is stunted. So is engagement and retention.

Starting today, you can be significantly more effective as a manager—and enjoy your job more—by engaging in regular coaching conversations ...