Coaching vs Managing
Develop people by asking questions, not giving answers.
Explanation
Managing is about getting immediate results through direction and control. Coaching is about developing people's capability to get results themselves. Great leaders do both but know when to coach (when you have time and they have potential) versus when to manage (urgent situations or performance issues). Coaching takes longer initially but creates lasting capability.
Real-World Example
Managing: 'Here's how to handle this customer complaint...' Coaching: 'What do you think this customer really needs? What options do we have? What would you recommend and why?' The second approach takes longer but develops their judgment for future situations.
How to Apply
Use coaching when: Person has potential, situation isn't urgent, you want to develop their skills. Ask questions like: What's your assessment? What have you tried? What would happen if...? What do you recommend? Use managing when: Person lacks basic skills, situation is urgent, clear direction is needed. Balance based on person and situation.