When Support Turns Into Oversight
Last week we discussed the contrast between an Agile Coach and an Agile Referee—one fosters agility, while the other enforces rules. Today, let’s go further into the unintended effects of a referee-like approach and how it can undermine team growth. Recognizing when this shift happens is only the beginning. The key is understanding the consequences of rigid coaching and knowing how to pivot back to a supportive role.
Unintended Consequences of Over-Enforcement
Acting as an Agile Referee may seem like a way to ensure teams stay on track, but it often results in long-term setbacks that go unnoticed until they are deeply ingrained.
- Teams Lose Confidence in Their Own Decisions
When a coach prioritizes adherence over autonomy, teams become hesitant to act independently. Instead of testing new ideas, they wait for approval, which slows down innovation and decision-making. - Leadership Views Agile as Restrictive
Many executives already perceive Agile as another layer of bureaucracy. When a coach emphasizes strict compliance over adaptability, it reinforces the belief that Agile is about following rules rather than fostering improvement. - The Coach Becomes a Single Point of Failure
If teams can only function effectively when the coach is present, agility is superficial. Once the coach steps away, teams default to previous habits, demonstrating that Agile was never truly internalized.
Shifting from Enforcement to Guidance
If you recognize that your approach has leaned toward enforcement, there are practical ways to realign your coaching style:
- Shift from Authority to Inquiry
Instead of prescribing solutions, create opportunities for teams to explore possibilities on their own. Facilitate discussions that help them uncover insights rather than providing immediate answers. - Encourage Teams to Take Ownership
Rather than being the gatekeeper of Agile best practices, empower teams to experiment, iterate, and refine their processes based on what works for them. - Support Leadership in Developing Agility
If teams perceive the coach as an enforcer, leadership likely holds the same view. Work with stakeholders to integrate Agile thinking at all levels, ensuring that leaders drive agility rather than merely adopting terminology.
Beyond Rule Enforcement
True agility is about flexibility and continuous improvement. The most effective Agile Coaches don’t ensure teams “follow Agile”—they help teams internalize agility as a way of thinking and working.
Rather than asking, “Are they sticking to the framework?” focus on “Are they evolving their approach to deliver better outcomes?”
Have you ever found yourself slipping into enforcement mode? What strategies have helped you transition back to true coaching? Let’s discuss.
