Good managers aren’t born—they’re developed over time. Two of the best ways to help managers grow are training and coaching. Training teaches skills in a structured way, while coaching gives personal guidance and feedback. The real question isn’t which one is better, but how to use both in the right balance.
What Training Does
Training gives managers knowledge in a clear, organized way. It’s often done in groups and covers important topics like communication, company rules, or how to manage performance.
Training works well because:
- It’s efficient – lots of people can learn at once.
- It’s consistent – everyone gets the same information.
- It’s scalable – easy to repeat for new managers.
But training has limits. Since it’s usually the same for everyone, it doesn’t always address the specific challenges each manager faces.
What Coaching Does
Coaching is more personal. It helps managers apply what they learned in training to real situations. A coach works one-on-one to help them improve decision-making, handle tough conversations, and build confidence.
Coaching is helpful because:
- It’s personalized – focuses on each manager’s unique needs.
- It’s practical – helps turn knowledge into action.
- It’s long-lasting – supports ongoing growth.
The downside is that coaching takes more time and resources.
How to Balance Both
The best approach is to combine training and coaching. Training gives everyone a solid base of knowledge. Coaching then builds on that base, helping managers adjust and grow in their own way.
For example, after a training session on performance reviews, coaching can help managers practice giving feedback and learn how to handle tough situations.
The right mix depends on things like:
- Your goals – do you need quick, consistent knowledge or deeper growth?
- Manager experience – new managers often need more training, while experienced ones may need more coaching.
- Resources – time, budget, and staff available.
Training and coaching work best when used together. Training gives managers the basics, while coaching helps them apply those skills and improve over time. With the right balance, managers become not only knowledgeable but also confident and adaptable leaders. You can learn more strategies for effective coaching and training by enrolling in our management training programs. Call today to learn more about our training programs and start improving your leadership skills right away!