Being a professional

I am not fond of people calling coaching an industry, coaching is a profession. Because it is a profession there are certain characteristics of being professional that I feel are very important These are some of my thoughts on what it takes to be a professional in today’s fast paced world of instant information.  

Passion – A genuine enthusiasm for what you do. Not just when there are crowds and on game day but everyday.

Belief – Believe in what you do and live your beliefs.

Grunt Work – 90% of coaching is grunt work. It is doing the mundane tasks that are essential. .

Experience – Train for several sports, coach several sports. There is no substitute for having to put your butt on the line on game day as player or a coach. This is essential. This does not mean you have to be a star, but at least participate.

Study and observe - Get around great coaches. See how they work. See how they praise and how they correct. Learn everything they do. Observe their body language. Listen and see how they communicate.

Learn & Research – Read scientific journals, coaching journals, technical journals. Get away from the Internet and go for straight facts. Study video.

Practice – Get proficient at the skills you must teach. Be able to capably demonstrate the movements. Know skill progressions and how to teach them.

Develop a coaching eye – Train yourself to observe without a visual bias.

Be Organized – Plan and have a contingency plan. Be on time and stay late.

Look the Part – Get fit, dress the part and dress appropriately.

Communication Skills - Sharpen them. Realize all the dimensions’ of communication. Remember communication is not sending it is also receiving.

Have a life – Take care of your family and reserve some time for yourself.

As a last thought remember it takes at least twenty years to be an overnight success so don’t be in a hurry, take your time.