Why Great Leaders Coach People Differently

You can’t coach everyone the same way.

Why? Because not everyone on your team is stuck for the same reason.

Some have the drive but need direction.

Some have the skills but have lost their spark.

And some may simply be in the wrong role altogether.

That’s where the Will–Skill Matrix comes in. It’s a simple tool that helps you see your team more clearly. With it, you can lead with intention instead of assumption.

You can download the high-quality version of the visual above, plus 50+ other useful infographics designed to help you and your team stay focused on what matters most: building strong client relationships.

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1. Trusted Drivers (High Skill, High Will)

These are your A-players. They deliver great results and bring positive energy to the team. They’re the people you can trust to get the job done, and they often lift others up along the way.

How to support them:

Give them stretch goals so they keep growing.
Let them mentor others, sharing their knowledge and skills.
Offer authentic recognition… don’t let their efforts go unnoticed.

What to watch for:

Boredom. If they don’t feel challenged, even top performers can slowly disengage.

2. Hungry Learners (Low Skill, High Will)

These teammates have the desire to grow but not all the skills yet. They show up eager, ready to learn, and they need coaching that builds confidence and momentum.

How to support them:

Give quick, clear feedback so they know how to improve.
Provide chances to shadow others or take on small, achievable tasks.
Celebrate their small wins… it helps build confidence fast.

What to watch for:

If they’re left unsupported for too long, their motivation can fade. Hungry learners need regular encouragement to stay engaged.

3. Drifting Talent (High Skill, Low Will)

This group has the ability but not the energy. Something has caused their spark to dim. Maybe they feel disconnected from the team, the purpose, or the work itself.

How to support them:

Have honest conversations and get to the heart of what’s going on.
Help them reconnect to purpose so they remember why their work matters.
Offer autonomy and accountability… sometimes freedom to own their work reignites interest.

What to watch for:

Signs of resistance or apathy. If left unchecked, drifting talent can become disengaged talent.

4. Misaligned Fit (Low Skill, Low Will)

This is the toughest box. These are teammates who lack both drive and ability. Often, they’re in the wrong role, or maybe even the wrong company.

How to support them:

Set clear expectations about what’s required.
Explore whether another role or path might be a better fit.
If needed, provide a respectful off-ramp so they can find a place that suits them better.

What to watch for:

Delaying decisions here can drain your entire team. If someone is truly misaligned, acting quickly and respectfully is best for everyone.

The Bigger Picture

Here’s the truth:

Effective leaders don’t just react to performance. They respond to what’s driving it.

The Will–Skill Matrix gives you a lens to do exactly that. By seeing where each person stands, high or low skill, high or low will, you can meet them where they are.

When you coach this way, you don’t just move individuals forward. You move the whole team forward.

So here’s the question: Where will you focus this week?