Inner game and outer game - coaching for advantage

When it comes to evaluating employees, most managers tend to focus solely on their outer game - their skills, experiences, and qualifications. And while this approach certainly has its merits, it often overlooks a crucial aspect of employee development - their inner game.

The concept of the inner game refers to an individual's mindset, attitudes, beliefs, and emotional intelligence. It encompasses their self-awareness, self-confidence, resilience, and ability to handle stress and challenges. While the outer game may showcase an employee's technical abilities, it is the inner game that determines their overall performance, growth, and success in the long run.

Coaching employees to develop their inner game can have numerous benefits for both the individual and the organization as a whole. Here are a few reasons why focusing on the inner game is essential:

1. Improved Performance

By addressing the inner game, managers can help employees tap into their full potential. When individuals have a positive mindset, believe in their abilities, and possess the necessary emotional intelligence, they are more likely to perform at their best. Coaching can help employees develop resilience, overcome self-doubt, and cultivate a growth mindset, all of which contribute to improved performance.

2. Enhanced Engagement and Motivation

Employees who feel connected to their work and are motivated to excel are more engaged and productive. Focusing on the inner game helps individuals align their values, passions, and goals with their work. Coaching can support employees in finding meaning and purpose in their roles, fostering a sense of fulfillment and motivation.

3. Effective Leadership Development

Leadership is not just about technical skills; it requires strong emotional intelligence and self-awareness. By coaching employees on their inner game, managers can cultivate effective leaders who can inspire and motivate their teams. Developing qualities such as empathy, active listening, and self-reflection can significantly impact a leader's ability to build trust and create a positive work culture.

4. Resilience and Adaptability

In today's fast-paced and ever-changing business landscape, resilience and adaptability are crucial. Coaching employees to strengthen their inner game can help them navigate challenges, setbacks, and uncertainties with greater ease. By building resilience, individuals can bounce back from failures, learn from mistakes, and embrace change, ensuring their long-term success.

5. Improved Well-Being and Work-Life Balance

Addressing the inner game also promotes employee well-being and work-life balance. Coaching can help individuals manage stress, enhance self-care practices, and establish healthy boundaries. By fostering a supportive and balanced work environment, managers can create a culture that values the overall well-being of their employees.

While the outer game of employees is undeniably important, the significance of the inner game is often the way to achieve sustainable competitive advantage. By focusing on developing an employees' mindset, emotional intelligence, and self-awareness, organizations can unlock their full potential, drive performance, and create a thriving work culture. Investing in coaching and supporting employees' inner game is a win-win situation for both the individual, their manager, and the organization.