Often players are caught in the trap of believing the relationship with their coach is one way; the coach leads, they follow. In reality, these are just different aspects of leadership towards a common goal. Both require positive performances and ultimately the winning of games. With that said, a player can also influence their manager too, something considered leading up the chain of command. There are differences to how this is approached as compared to the coach leading downward, but the idea of conscious effort going towards this mutual relationship is an important aspect not to neglect.
Often when players are struggling for game time, or after falling out with their coach, there is a disconnect which lasts until the latter changes their mind naturally over a prolonged period time. Through the right influencing of a coach, a player can far more easily create the necessary trust to earn this game-time. After a fallout, they will quickly get past differences and back to a functional relationship while already having a positive image of their player.
In order to manage a manager properly, it is crucial to understand their individual goals, desires, philosophy and personality traits. Creating trust relies on offering solutions to the problems the manager perceives. For example, after a tough defeat, a manager may have fear for their job or losing the collective dressing room spirit. These moments can then offer the perfect opportunity to garner the right relationship. For example, a public display of support in such a moment will positively influence the manager in such a moment.
Similarly, the approach to tough conversations is an important part of managing them. Many players will altogether avoid discussions and therefore are at the mercy of the manager’s discretion. Instead, being courageous to continually maintain these even when not always amicable, while still appealing to the interests of the manager, can lead to more positive relations and in turn greater opportunities within the side.
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