Skill & Will Aren’t Fixed

I was first introduced to this strategy by my coach when training to be a principal. The ideas behind a skill/will matrix are pretty well documented across sectors, including nonprofits and education. The idea is basic, but powerful. Especially when combined with adept coaching and people development.

The template itself is simple, a quadrant matrix wherein any individual can be “sorted” based upon their (technical) skills and their (adaptive) will — words in brackets will be important over time! My first encounter with this tool was, again, as a principal trainee so I was tasked with identifying where a team of teachers placed on this quadrant.

So now you’ve identified where everyone “is” on the quadrant…so what? Now, you coach and develop — not just the low skill/will folks, but everyone. On the right are some beginning suggestions for how to nurture skill, build alignment and will, but also ensure you’re not overburdening your “superstar” high skill/will members.

Every staff person deserves to have personalized attention and development aligned to their current needs. Staff will always be your greatest asset, so your time as a leader thinking about and planning for their development pays dividends for you, and your mission.

Do you want to co-develop a skill/will matrix for your team, with a customized coaching plan for everyone? Contact us!

The skill/will matrix is a powerful start for effective coaching