Every group has them. The player who barely says a word and processes everything internally. The player who talks through every point and thinks out loud. Neither is a problem. They are simply different ways of learning.
Effective coaching is not about preferring one style over the other. It is about recognizing how personality affects learning and adjusting your approach so feedback actually lands.
Why This Matters
Personality shapes how players hear and use feedback. What motivates one player may overwhelm another.
Adapting your approach creates:
Stronger Trust – Players feel seen and understood, not managed.
Better Buy-In – Feedback feels relevant instead of generic.
More Effective Learning – Players process information in a way that fits how they think.
When coaching misses personality, even good advice can fall flat.
How to Adjust
Small changes in how you communicate can make a big difference.
Quiet Players
Ask direct, simple questions and give them time to respond. Silence does not mean confusion or disengagement. Many quiet players are processing deeply and need space before answering.
Talkers
Set clear cues and boundaries, then let them play. Acknowledge their thoughts, but avoid extended conversations that slow the session. Clear direction followed by action usually works best.
Final Thoughts
Good coaching adapts without labeling or favoritism. The goal is not to change who players are, but to meet them where they are.
When you lead effectively and coach the quiet player and the talker with equal intention, the whole group learns more effectively.