Coaching is much like the catcher and the pitcher. If the manager, who is the pitcher, is not willing to throw pitches it doesn't matter if the catcher is willing to catch or listen and vice versa. If the catcher is not willing to catch what the pitcher throws, there's not going to be a solid and effective coaching relationship. The pitcher, who is typically the manager, sends pitches in the form of questions, suggestions, various forms of feedback, just to name a few to the catcher. The catcher, who is typically the employee, must possess the ability as well as willingness to catch those suggestions, questions, and forms of feedback. It is critical both the pitcher and catcher work in tandem; otherwise, a fractured relationship will begin to develop and continuously exist. It begs the question in every organization in corporate America. Are your managers willing to be thoughtful and considerate pitchers? And are your employees willing to be thoughtful and considerate catchers?
