Communicating effectively

Communicating effectively is one of the keys to success in coaching. Not only will effective communication help swimmers understand the message you are trying to get across it also helps to build positive relationships both swimmers and parents/caregivers. Ongoing communication often deals with little problems before they become big problems.

Good communication is much more than just talking. The way you deal with people, how you listen, how you ask questions, your tone of voice and your body language all sends a message to your athletes. Many coaches tend to be good at sending messages, but need to improve their skills in receiving messages.

Communicating effectively with your athletes
Communicating across cultures
Communicating with others

The same principles listed above extend to swimmers with disabilities: Treat them as you would want to be treated yourself.

Communicating effectively with your swimmers

Greet your swimmers warmly by their name, every session
Wear appropriate clothes i.e. team uniform
Speak clearly
Listen carefully
Give and receive feedback:
- Be positive and encouraging
- Be specific so the swimmer is clear about what you expect
- Focus on behaviour or actions that can be changed
- Use words the swimmers can understand - keep it simple for beginners
- Encourage your swimmers to give you feedback about how their performance “felt”
- Ask questions to show that their contribution is important
- Ask open-ended questions that make your athletes think, take responsibility and become self aware.
Be aware of your body language.

Communicating across cutures

Be aware of cultural differences in communicating with your athletes.

If you are unsure about how to communicate with an athlete from a different culture, ask somebody for advice.

Communicating with others

Parents, caregivers and others can have a big impact on how athletes feel about sport.

It is important to establish a positive relationship with supporters right from the start of the season.

A good way to start is to hold a meeting to:

Introduce yourself
Discuss the season ahead
Set expectations
Thank them for support
Allocate roles if required
Establish your expectations of supporters’ behaviour while watching a competition or game.

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