When to Coach vs When to Discipline Your Team (3 Clear Rules)

Overview

In this episode, Dan breaks down a challenge every manager and trades leader faces: when to coach and when to discipline your team members. Making the wrong call can hurt morale, slow productivity, and make your shop feel chaotic—but done right, it builds trust and keeps your team motivated. He dives into practical strategies for spotting the signs that a team member needs guidance versus correction, shares real-world examples from the field, and explains how to have tough conversations without damaging relationships. By the end, you’ll have a clear framework for leading with confidence, clarity, and fairness so your team can thrive and your business can grow.

Discussions:

1. Look at the pattern, not the one-off – Identify whether a mistake is a single slip or a recurring problem to decide your approach.

2. Determine the root cause – Is it a skill gap, misunderstanding, or attitude problem? Coaching is best for knowledge gaps; discipline is necessary for repeated negligence or disrespect.

3. Act promptly but fairly – Address issues close to the behavior. Give immediate feedback when coaching, and be clear, factual, and consistent when disciplining.

Remember, leadership in the trades isn’t just about telling people what to do—it’s about knowing when to guide, when to correct, and how to build a team that trusts you. By mastering the balance between coaching and discipline, you create a culture where your team can grow, perform, and stick around. Apply these principles consistently, and you’ll see your shop run smoother, your team stay motivated, and your leadership truly make an impact.

Keep leading with impact—and I’ll see you next time.

Free Coaching Call:
Looking to dive deeper into your leadership journey? Schedule a free 30-minute coaching session with me at https://link.builtforthetrades.com/widget/booking/qetDwdbwknifZZLUGwwp

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