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Presidential Candidate Coachability

Presidential Candidate Coachability

A Political Agenda?

Let me make this perfectly clear  This is a leadership blog. Not a political pulpit.   The purpose of this post is to examine the value of coachability in leadership.  I believe this year’s Presidential Debates provide insightful examples and food for thought for leaders of all kinds.  I have no political agenda. 

Election Decision Making Criteria

I believe two important criteria are in play when selecting a political candidate.

  1. Where do the candidates stand on issues that are important to me?
  2. What are the candidates’ credentials for the office?

Every voter has their own values for measuring the importance of both issues and credentials.  We can agree that both are important for voters.

Post Presidential Debate Analysis

June 27, 2024 Biden – Trump Debate

In the June 20214 debate with Donald Trump, President Joe Biden’s performance influenced party leaders to question his credentials.  Concern over President Joe Biden’s age-related capacities became such an issue that he withdrew from the ticket.  

September 10, 2024 Harris – Trump Debate

Most analysts agreed that Vice President Harris held her own and didn’t hurt her candidacy. In contrast, former President Trump did little to help his cause.  

Observers concluded that Ms. Harris was well-coached which contributed to her debate performance. 

A Leadership Coach's Perspective

In order to be “well-coached”, you need to be coachable.  Here’s one definition:

“Coachability is the ability to be open to learning and improving from feedback and instruction. Coachable people are receptive to criticism, adaptable, and have a growth mindset. They recognize that they can benefit from the guidance of others and are willing to change for the better.

–   Kan Tang

Who's More Coachable?

Why is this Important?

Donald Trump - questionable coachability
Kamala Harris

My Candidate Coachability Questions

I admit the second item exhibits a coach’s bias with a leading editorial question. Not to influence your vote but for your own leadership growth.  

  • Based on the definition above, which of the two candidates do you believe is more coachable
  • How important is it for the leader of the free world to have the ability to improve from feedback and benefit from the guidance of others?
  • How important will candidate coachability be in this election campaign? 
Voter decisions are about issues and credentials. Coachability falls in the credentials category. Right?  What role will coachability play as issues are discussed? 

How does coachability apply to your ability to lead?

Woodrow Wilson

Woodrow Wilson

Past President's Perception

“I not only use all the brains I have but all that I can borrow.

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