Use these ready-made coaching templates when facing common management challenges. Each includes sample language, context, and a tip.
When to use: Someone repeated a mistake, missed a deadline, or acted off course.
Template:
"When [situation] happened, I noticed [impact]. Can you share what happened from your side? I want us aligned on what good looks like."
Use the SBI model — Situation, Behavior, Impact.
When to use: You're overwhelmed or giving someone a growth opportunity.
Template:
"I’d like you to own this. Here’s the goal, what success looks like, and the deadline. I’ll support you if anything blocks you."
Explain why you’re delegating — not just what.
When to use: Weekly or biweekly with each direct report.
Agenda Template:
- Wins and challenges
- Feedback both ways
- Career goals
- "What’s one thing I could do better as your manager?"
Take notes and follow up. These meetings build trust over time.
When to use: You disagree with a priority, deadline, or ask.
Template:
"We want to deliver well, but to do that by [date] we'd need to drop or delay [other item]. Is that acceptable?"
Frame tradeoffs clearly. People respect realism when it's constructive.
When to use: A pattern has drifted — meetings run over, people interrupt, etc.
Template:
"I’ve noticed we’ve slipped a bit on [norm]. Let’s reset and recommit to how we want to show up as a team."
Use “we” language and show you’re part of the improvement too.
When to use: A direct report wants to grow or you want to support development.
Template:
"What does growth look like for you in the next 6–12 months? What kinds of projects or skills do you want to build?"
Let them lead. Your job is to clear obstacles and open doors.
When to use: You mishandled something and want to repair trust.
Template:
"I want to own how I handled [situation]. I missed the mark, and I’ll be more mindful moving forward."
Modeling vulnerability sets a high trust bar.
When to use: Someone went above and beyond or reinforced a team value.
Template:
"You did a great job with [action]. It really showed [value or impact], and I appreciate it."
Recognition is a lever — be specific and timely.