Coaching a team—whether it’s in a medical practice, a corporate office, or on the field—is both challenging and deeply rewarding. Some days, you’ll feel like you’re soaring, while others might feel like an uphill battle. But that’s the nature of leadership—it’s not about perfection; it’s about progress, persistence, and purpose.
A successful coach isn’t just someone who knows how to give direction. They prepare intentionally. They understand the team’s goals, individual strengths, and how to align those elements for collective success. Good coaches don’t wing it. They show up with a plan—and a purpose.
One of the biggest mistakes a leader can make is playing favorites. It chips away at morale, causes division, and erodes trust. A successful coach recognizes the unique value each team member brings and understands that unity is key to long-term success.
In their book The Little Book of Coaching, Don Shula and Ken Blanchard lay out five powerful principles of effective coaching that are still incredibly relevant today:
- Conviction-Driven – Never compromise your core beliefs or values. Stand firm in your principles.
- Overlearning – Practice consistently until skills become second nature. Repetition builds confidence.
- Audible-Ready – Be flexible and know when to pivot. Adaptability is one of a leader’s strongest assets.
- Consistency – Respond to performance in a predictable, fair manner. Inconsistency breeds uncertainty.
- Honesty-Based – Lead with integrity. Say what you mean and follow through with action.
While these are coaching principles, they are just as essential in everyday leadership. Whether you’re managing a practice, leading a staff meeting, or guiding new hires, your team looks to you not only for direction, but for clarity, character, and confidence.
Ken Blanchard reminds us, “The difference between success and mediocrity is often how deep an organization’s leaders can get their vision across to inspire people to do their best.” That’s powerful—and true.
Successful leaders have a compelling vision and a clear purpose. But more importantly, they communicate that vision regularly. They invite their team into it, make space for collaboration, and help each person see how their role contributes to the greater mission. A team that understands why they do what they do is a team that stays motivated and engaged.
Leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about creating the kind of environment where people feel equipped, encouraged, and excited to bring their best. And that starts with you.
So, let me ask you this: Do you have a vision for the team you're leading? Do they know where you’re headed—and more importantly, are they inspired to go there with you?
King Solomon once said, “Where there is no vision, the people perish.” Without direction, people drift. But with a shared purpose and a strong leader, they thrive.
Where is your team going?
Tina Del Buono, PMAC
Director Top Practices Virtual Practice Management Institute
Consultant and Performance Coach
Tina Del Buono is a Practice Management Performance Coach, Consultant and Mentor for physicians and her fellow office managers/administrators and their staff. She has been a practice manager for over 25 years. Tina is the author of a National Indie Award Winning Book, “Truth from the Trenches” The Complete Guide to Creating A High-Performing, Inspired Medical Team.