top of page

3 Types of Coaching

1 

BUILD BUILD BUILD

What It Is

This style centres on continuous positive reinforcement, where the coach consistently highlights what you are doing well. The idea is to focus on your strengths and successes, encouraging you to keep developing the habits that lead to positive results.

​

How It Works

  • Celebrate every win: Each achievement, no matter how small, is warmly acknowledged.

  • Emphasise strengths: By pointing out your best qualities and actions, you are motivated to repeat them.

  • Reinforce good habits: Frequent positive feedback guides you towards consistently successful practices.

​

Key Benefits

  1. Boosts confidence: Regular praise helps you feel assured and motivated to keep improving.

  2. Creates a supportive atmosphere: Knowing your efforts will be recognised fosters a sense of security and collaboration.

  3. Enhances motivation: Consistent, uplifting feedback can inspire you to push even further.

​

Potential Challenges

  1. Limited constructive criticism: If issues are never addressed, you might not realise areas needing improvement.

  2. Slower problem-solving: Relying solely on praise may overlook certain weaknesses that require attention.

  3. Dependence on approval: You could grow reliant on external validation, making setbacks harder to handle.

2

BUILD BREAK BUILD

What It Is

Commonly known as the “feedback sandwich,” Build, Break, Build combines positive feedback with constructive criticism, ensuring you understand both your strengths and the areas you could refine.

​

How It Works

  • Start with a positive observation: Open the discussion by pointing out something you did exceptionally well.

  • Provide focused feedback (the ‘break’): Identify specific elements that need improvement, offering clear examples and guidance.

  • Conclude on a positive note: Reinforce your strengths again, expressing confidence in your ability to make the suggested changes.

​

Key Benefits

  1. Balanced growth: You receive encouragement while still knowing precisely where you could improve.

  2. Maintains trust: By pairing positive feedback with constructive points, you’re more likely to remain receptive and motivated.

  3. Promotes continuous development: Ending positively encourages you to act on feedback and keep going.

​

Potential Challenges

  1. Risk of sounding insincere: If praise is forced, it might feel manipulative.

  2. Possible confusion: You might focus on either the praise or the criticism and overlook the other.

  3. Diluted emphasis: Vital areas of improvement can sometimes be overshadowed by the positive remarks.

3

BREAK BREAK BREAK

What It Is

This approach is more direct and often tougher, emphasising mistakes or weaknesses so you can address them quickly. While it can feel challenging, some find that it leads to rapid improvements in fast-paced or high-pressure situations.

​

How It Works

  • Immediate identification of errors: Issues are highlighted as soon as they occur.

  • Consistent, honest criticism: Feedback tends to be frequent and unfiltered, challenging you to adapt and improve rapidly.

  • Expectation of resilience: You are encouraged to handle direct criticism and make swift corrections.

​

Key Benefits

  1. Quick problem-solving: Immediate feedback can result in faster improvement, especially when deadlines are tight.

  2. Builds resilience: Regular constructive pressure may help you develop a thicker skin, useful in sales or competitive environments.

  3. Clear directives: There is rarely any doubt about what to fix, meaning you know exactly where to focus.

​

Potential Challenges

  1. Potential drop in morale: Repeated negative feedback can be discouraging if not balanced with encouragement.

  2. Risk of strained relationships: Feeling continuously criticised can harm trust and team spirit.

  3. Fear of trying new things: A predominantly negative environment can make people hesitant to experiment or share ideas.

4

Deciding Which Style Suits You Best

  1. Consider Your Personality: Some individuals thrive on positivity and might do well with “Build, Build, Build,” while others may respond better to direct, candid comments.

  2. Think About Your Current Goals: If you are just starting out or require an initial confidence boost, a supportive approach might be best. If you are aiming for rapid advancement in a competitive field, more immediate, direct feedback may be helpful.

  3. Seek a Healthy Balance: You do not necessarily have to stick to one style. Many people benefit from elements of each, such as positive reinforcement combined with clear, constructive feedback.

  4. Remember Respect and Trust: Whatever style you choose, ensure feedback is given and received with mutual respect. Genuine support and open communication foster long-term success.

​

By understanding these three coaching styles—Build, Build, Build, Build, Break, Build, and Break, Break, Break—you can make an informed choice about which approach aligns with your personal development needs and preferences. Ultimately, effective coaching should leave you feeling supported, clear about your strengths, and motivated to tackle the areas you want to improve.

bottom of page