Army Family Team Building Level III

Coaching and Mentoring

Suggestions for Coaches and Mentors

1. BE a positive role model. Think of the people you admire and why. Work to emulate
them — in your own way. Remember, too, individuals who were not positive role models
for you and learn from their mistakes.
2. Language is important, as words can be easily misinterpreted. The tone of your voice is
particularly influential; sometimes what you’ve said is not as important as how you said
it.
3. Learn about the lives of the people with whom you work on a regular basis.
4. Share experiences and encourage others to do so.
5. Help develop the self-esteem of others. Provide positive comments, frequent praise and
most of all, encouragement. Be careful not to award undeserved praise just for the sake
of praising. It often has the opposite effect.
6. Don’t be afraid to say “I don’t know” or “I made a mistake” or “I’m sorry”.
7. Smile genuinely and from the heart. Maintain warm and friendly eye contact.
8. REALLY LISTEN. This is one of the most important skills you can develop.
9. Provide sincere compliments and expressions of appreciation.
10. Be there for assistance and advice and encourage independent thinking and new ideas
but let individuals make their own decisions.
11. Be available and approachable.
12. Identify successful role models and utilize their approaches. Integrate your own abilities
as well. Develop your own philosophy.
13. Learn how to work with and within the military framework. This will enable you to help
others use their skills most effectively.
14. Encourage commitment and show a genuine interest.
15. Be non-judgmental. Your role is to encourage and empower others.
16. A sense of humor goes a long way! Take the job seriously but be able to take a step
back as well.

2006/7 3.9 Handout 11