The Power of Coaching: Lessons from Two Transformative Reads

I consider myself fortunate to have been introduced to coaching early in my professional journey—though, at the time, I wasn’t even aware it was happening. I was being coached subtly, on the job, and only years later did I realize the immense value of that experience. The realisation was both humbling and enlightening, opening my eyes to the art and impact of effective coaching.

Recently, my understanding of coaching was further deepened after reading two exceptional books that I cannot stop thinking about: Trillion Dollar Coach by Eric Schmidt, Jonathan Rosenberg, and Alan Eagle, and The Coaching Habit: Say Less, Ask More & Change the Way You Lead Forever by Michael Bungay Stanier.

Trillion Dollar Coach: A Legacy of Leadership

This book offers a deep dive into the life and philosophy of Bill Campbell, the legendary coach to some of Silicon Valley's most influential leaders. Campbell's story is not just inspiring—it’s a masterclass in how coaching can transform individuals, teams, and entire organisations.

Some key takeaways that deeply resonated with me include:

• Be the Evangelist for Courage: One of Campbell's core beliefs was to believe in people more than they believe in themselves. A great coach instills confidence and encourages bold action.

• Your Title Makes You a Manager; Your People Make You a Leader: Leadership is not conferred by title—it's earned through trust, respect, and impact.

• Heads Held High: Even when letting people go, treat them with generosity and respect. Celebrate their contributions and preserve their dignity.

• Don’t Stick It in Their Ear: Rather than dictating what to do, coaches guide through stories and thoughtful questions, helping others arrive at their own best decisions.

• Leaders Lead: In moments of crisis or uncertainty, a team looks to its leader for clarity, commitment, and steadiness.

• The Elevator Chat: Loving your colleagues may not always come naturally, but with intentionality and practice, fostering compassion at work becomes easier and more authentic.

What struck me most about Campbell was not just the wisdom he shared, but the deep affection and respect he earned from those he coached. He left behind a legacy that continues to influence some of the most powerful leaders in the tech world.

The Coaching Habit: Simplicity That Sticks

On the other hand, Michael Bungay Stanier’s The Coaching Habit takes a refreshingly simple and practical approach to coaching. The premise is clear: great coaching is less about giving answers and more about asking the right questions.

Stanier introduces a set of straightforward questions that help build a coaching mindset into everyday leadership. His philosophy encourages leaders to “say less, ask more,” promoting deeper thinking and personal growth in those we lead. The book is engaging, actionable, and highly accessible—ideal for anyone aspiring to become a more effective coach.

Final Thoughts

Both books have left a lasting impact on me. While Trillion Dollar Coach showcases the powerful legacy of a deeply human and values-driven leader, The Coaching Habit equips us with the tools to start our own coaching journey—today.

If you're a leader, mentor, or someone passionate about helping others grow, I highly recommend picking up these two books. The insights within them don’t just elevate your coaching abilities—they elevate your ability to connect, lead, and inspire. Happy to hear your thoughts.