Stop solving. Start coaching.
You're a natural problem-solver. When someone brings you a problem, your instinct is to fix it. It feels efficient in the moment - but it keeps them reliant on you for answers.
The coaching approach is a different way. Support without solving. Questions that help people think. It's the foundational skill that builds capable, independent teams - and frees you up to work at the right level.
The problem with being a great problem-solver
Someone brings you a problem. You know the answer. You give it to them. Problem solved. Except - they learned nothing. Next time, they'll be back.
You've become the bottleneck. Every decision flows through you. Your people are capable, but they've stopped thinking for themselves.
You're working harder than you should be. More hours. More stress. More of the work that should be happening at other levels landing on your desk.
And when you're not there? Things slow down. Wait for your return. Because everyone is trained to need you.
A different kind of support
The coaching approach isn't about withholding help. It's about a different kind of help. Instead of solving the problem, you help the person think through it themselves.
You ask the right questions. You surface assumptions. You help them see options they hadn't considered. They leave with a solution - one they came up with, one they own, one they'll be able to implement.
Nothing to do with sports coaching or life coaching - this is a practical leadership skill you can use in corridor conversations, one-on-ones, or any time someone comes to you stuck.
The result? People who take more ownership. Teams that don't need you for every answer. Leaders who can finally contribute at the right level.
What you'll cover
One day. Practical skills you can use immediately. No role plays that make you cringe.
Why coaching matters
Why this skill is so high-leverage. What changes when you shift from solving to coaching. The mindset that makes it work.
The 5 keys to success
A straightforward structure you can use on the fly. Not a rigid process - a flexible approach that fits how you already work.
Questions and practice
Starter questions to try for yourself. Example scenarios. Safe practice to build your confidence.
This is for you if
- You're leading people - or about to be
- You're a natural problem-solver who wants to build others' capability
- You want your people to take more ownership
- You'd like to be freed up to work at the right level
This isn't
- Sports coaching or life coaching
- Therapy or counselling skills
- A full leadership programme - this is one foundational skill
- Confronting role plays or being thrown into the deep end
The format
One full day
10am-4pm. Enough time to go deep on the skill, without pulling you away from work for a whole week.
Small group
Limited numbers so there's room for questions and real conversation. Not a lecture.
Practical and evidence-based
Designed for people who are logical and careful thinkers. No waffle, jargon, or trust falls.
Shanel Winning
I'm a registered psychologist (NZ and NSW) and founder of Winning Performance. For nearly 20 years, I've worked with senior technical leaders and the people preparing to step into those roles.
The coaching approach is the skill I teach most often - because it's so foundational. Once you have it, everything else becomes easier. Your people grow. Your load lightens. And you finally have time to think.
As a psychologist, testimonials cannot be shared. References available on request.
Register your interest
We're gauging interest for sessions in Christchurch and Auckland. Register below and we'll be in touch when dates are confirmed.
The Coaching Approach
One day. The foundational skill that builds capable, independent teams.
- Full day session (10am-4pm)
- Programme materials and tools
- Catering and refreshments
- Starter questions and frameworks to use immediately
Most participants have this funded by their organisation. We can provide whatever documentation your finance or L&D team needs.
Build capability without burning out. Support without solving.
One day to learn the foundational skill that changes how your team grows - and how much ends up on your desk.
Questions? Email shanel@winningperformance.co.nz