Chapter 4: Capacity Building 105responding to requests to demonstrate necessary skills. Often
learners will hide their true feelings for fear of the consequences.
Coaches should ask "observation questions" to be sure this is a
barrier to desired performance. This skill requires asking the
questions tentatively to allow the learner to agree or modify how
they are feeling. For example, say, "I have a feeling you are not
totally confident in your ability to do this well, am I right?"
Techniques for building confidence
Once a lack of confidence is identified, and it is agreed this is a
problem, the second step is to enhance the learner's confidence using
the following techniques:
Reassure the learner these feelings are normal in these types of
situations. The coach should share any similar personal
experiences with the learner.
If possible, challenge the learner’s perception. Remind the learner
of a similar experience in which he or she used similar skills and
achieved excellence in practice. Sometimes the learner feels there
will be significant negative consequences if he or she fails to
execute the standard successfully. At these times the coach
should ask, "What is the worst thing that could happen if you
fail?" Reassure the learner, when possible, that you will be there
to provide help and support.