In the context of supervision, how is 'coaching' best defined?

In the context of supervision, coaching is best defined as the process of guiding and supporting employees to enhance their skills and performance. This definition emphasizes the collaborative nature of coaching, where a supervisor actively engages with employees to help them develop their abilities. Coaching involves providing feedback, fostering an environment for learning, and encouraging employees to reach their full potential.

Effective coaching creates a supportive atmosphere that not only focuses on improving specific skills but also builds confidence and promotes a growth mindset. This approach is essential in a supervisory role, as it helps cultivate a motivated and capable team, leading to improved overall performance and job satisfaction.

The other choices do not capture the essence of coaching. Assigning tasks without support fails to provide any developmental guidance. Intensive criticism does not contribute to skill enhancement and can lead to a negative work environment. Delegating responsibilities without engagement overlooks the important aspect of interaction and support necessary for employee development.