What statement best defines coaching leadership?

• A. The leader relies on extrinsic motivation to drive performance.
• B. The leader delegates day-to-day decisions and facilitates participation in decision-making while followers maintain control.
• C. The leader makes decisions and defines tasks but seeks input from followers using two-way communication.
• D. The leader directs followers with strict, top-down instructions.

Answer: (C)

Coaching leadership focuses on guiding and developing people through active dialogue. The leader provides direction and defines what needs to be done, but does so in a way that invites input from followers and uses two-way communication. This combination supports growth and skill-building while keeping the team aligned with goals.

That’s why the best statement is the one where the leader makes decisions and defines tasks, yet also seeks input from followers through two-way communication. It captures the balance of clear guidance with supportive coaching and dialogue.

The other approaches miss that balance. Relying on extrinsic motivation emphasizes rewards rather than ongoing development and conversation. Delegating decisions with followers keeping all control resembles a hands-off or laissez-faire style, which lacks coaching guidance. Top-down, strict directions reflect an authoritarian approach, not the collaborative, developmental mindset of coaching leadership.