The power of practical coach skills training to build new habits

Investing in coach skills training is a smart decision for organisations looking to foster growth, drive performance and build strong, adaptable teams. However, the true value of such training lies in how effectively it translates into lasting habits within the workplace.

To achieve this, training must go beyond theory and embrace practical, hands-on application. By understanding the science of learning and memory, particularly Hermann Ebbinghaus’ groundbreaking work on the forgetting curve and spacing effect, organisations can ensure that their investment in coach skills training yields long-term benefits.

Why learning needs to be sticky

The ultimate goal of workplace learning is not just to provide information but to embed new skills and behaviours that drive meaningful change. However, making learning “stick” is a significant challenge. Without deliberate efforts to reinforce and apply what is learned, employees are unlikely to retain or utilise new skills. This is where practical, hands-on training becomes essential.

Psychologist Hermann Ebbinghaus’ research on memory and retention highlights the urgency of addressing this issue. According to his studies, individuals forget up to 75% of what they’ve learned within just seven days unless active steps are taken to retain it. This phenomenon, known as the forgetting curve, illustrates how quickly information fades from memory when it is not reinforced.

Understanding the forgetting curve

Ebbinghaus’ forgetting curve demonstrates that memory retention declines exponentially over time. Initially, the drop-off is steep, but with consistent reinforcement, recall improves significantly. Practical training that incorporates regular review, active engagement and real-world application helps combat this decline by reinforcing learning at critical intervals.

Strategies to overcome the forgetting curve include:

• Active practice: Encouraging participants to immediately apply what they’ve learned in realistic scenarios
• Spaced repetition: Revisiting key concepts at intervals to strengthen memory
• Feedback loops: Providing constructive feedback during hands-on activities to refine skills

The role of practical coaching skills training

Coach skills training is particularly suited to this hands-on approach because it involves interpersonal interactions, communication and problem-solving - all of which benefit from practice. By focusing on experiential learning, participants can:

• Build confidence in applying coaching techniques
• Adapt to real-world challenges and dynamics
• Receive immediate feedback, which accelerates improvement

For example, role-playing exercises, live coaching sessions and peer-to-peer coaching opportunities create an environment where participants can experiment, learn from mistakes and refine their skills in a safe and supportive setting.

Embedding coaching skills for maximum impact

To ensure coaching skills are embedded and sustained in the workplace, organisations should consider these strategies:

1. Create a coaching culture: foster an environment where coaching is part of everyday interactions. Encourage managers and leaders to model coaching behaviours and prioritise ongoing development.
2. Leverage on-the-job application: provide opportunities for employees to use coaching skills in their daily work. This reinforces learning and helps embed new habits.
3. Offer continued support: follow up initial training with refresher courses, peer coaching groups, or access to coaching mentors. This keeps skills sharp and encourages continuous improvement.
4. Measure and celebrate success: track the impact of coaching on team performance and celebrate successes to reinforce the value of these skills.

The long-term benefits of practical training

When coach skills training is designed with hands-on application and reinforcement in mind, it delivers long-term benefits for both individuals and organisations. Employees become more effective communicators, problem-solvers and collaborators. Teams become more resilient, adaptable and innovative. Ultimately, organisations that invest in practical, habit-forming training create a workforce that is better equipped to meet challenges and seize opportunities.

By understanding the science of learning and leveraging practical approaches to training, organisations can ensure their investment in coaching skills pays dividends. In doing so, they build a foundation for sustained growth, improved performance and lasting impact.