UEFA coach education: ten characteristics of an effective leader

1. Lives humility

The ability to put the needs of the group before their own individual needs is an important trait for a leader, who should be open and honest, down to earth, friendly and caring.

2. Gets results

An effective leader will do the extra work to get the job done and hit deadlines when it is required. They will also be process-driven, with a high level of organisation.

3. Focuses on what matters

A good leader should be able to prioritise the most important tasks facing them and their team, setting smaller issues aside. They will also be able to influence others to do the same.

Three-time UEFA Champions League-winning manager Pep Guardiola Getty Images

4. Highly skilled in critical conversations

This means being able to have difficult discussions in a consistent, calm and confident manner. It may not be enjoyable, but an effective leader recognises the need for progress and can provide constructive feedback to others.

5. Strong decision-maker

The effective leader will listen, filter the key information and react decisively. They will understand that not everybody may agree with their decisions, but can proceed confidently with their calls. They can also hold their hands up and accept responsibility when things don’t go as planned, and will learn quickly from their mistakes.

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6. Positive and effective communicator

Comfortable in formal and informal situations, the effective leader can use different styles of communication depending on the circumstances. Using simple and effective language, they will also ensure others understand their message, and will take regular time out to provide organisational updates.

7. Authentic style

Comfortable in their own skin, a good leader will be true to their own values and won’t try to be something or somebody they are not. They can demonstrate consistent behaviours irrelevant of the situation or external pressures.

Carlo Ancelotti is the most successful manager in UEFA Champions League history with five titles Getty Images

8. Energiser

A strong leader will display a positive personality, identifying the opportunity in situations and seeing good in others. They will be trusting, motivate others when required and display their belief in the team to succeed.

9. Never makes assumptions

If in doubt, a good leader will reach out to ensure they understand the opinions of others, and is not afraid to ask the most basic of questions to achieve that aim, even if the answer is not what they wish to hear.

10. Outstanding coach

The effective leader will not simply take over a situation to solve problems or provide answers for others, but instead facilitate self-learning in others. This means giving team members responsibility, asking questions and coaching their ability to learn for themselves and reach their goals.