Coachability—the ability to seek, accept, and apply feedback—is one of the strongest predictors of entrepreneurial success. Research in behavioral science confirms that coachable individuals are more adaptable, resilient, and better equipped to navigate uncertainty. Entrepreneurs who embrace feedback are more likely to refine their strategies, identify blind spots, and accelerate their growth.
The Science Behind Coachability
Coachability is rooted in key psychological theories:
- Growth Mindset (Carol Dweck) – Entrepreneurs with a growth mindset see abilities as malleable rather than fixed. They view feedback as a tool for learning rather than a personal attack. This perspective makes them more likely to experiment, iterate, and improve.
- Grit and Resilience (Angela Duckworth) – Highly coachable individuals demonstrate grit by persisting through challenges. Their ability to take constructive feedback without defensiveness fosters long-term success.
- Cognitive Flexibility (Scott Barry Kaufman) – Coachability is linked to cognitive flexibility, or the ability to shift perspectives and adapt based on new information. Entrepreneurs who can pivot based on external input are more likely to thrive in dynamic environments.
How to Develop Coachability
Becoming more coachable is an intentional process. Here’s how to strengthen this critical skill:
1. Strengthen Self-Awareness
- Conduct a self-audit: What are your natural strengths? Where do you struggle?
- Identify your blind spots: Ask a mentor or peer to highlight one area where you could improve.
- Keep a feedback journal: Track patterns in feedback you receive to spot recurring themes.
2. Shift from Defense to Curiosity
- When receiving feedback, pause before reacting. Take a breath and listen with an open mind.
- Instead of rejecting criticism, reframe it as a learning opportunity. Ask, “What can I learn from this?”
- Separate your ego from your performance—feedback is about improvement, not personal failure.
3. Ask for Specific, Actionable Feedback
- Instead of a vague “How am I doing?” ask:
- “What’s one thing I could improve in my leadership style?”
- “What’s something I’m not seeing that could help my business grow?”
- “How do you think my decision-making process could be more effective?”
- Follow up with: “Can you give me an example?” This grounds feedback in real observations.
4. Act on Feedback and Show Improvement
- The best way to build trust with mentors and peers is to implement their advice and demonstrate growth.
- Let people know how their feedback has helped you. Example: “I took your advice on improving team communication, and our meetings have been much more productive.”
- Iterate: Treat feedback as an ongoing loop—test, refine, and adjust.
The Business Case for Coachability
Coachability isn’t just about personal growth—it has tangible business benefits:
- Faster Learning Curves – Entrepreneurs who embrace feedback adapt quickly to market changes.
- Better Decision-Making – They incorporate diverse perspectives, reducing blind spots and biases.
- Stronger Leadership – Coachable leaders build trust and foster innovation within their teams.
- Higher Investment Potential – Investors and accelerators prioritize founders who are receptive to guidance.
Final Takeaway
Coachability isn’t about agreeing with every piece of feedback—it’s about being open to learning, testing ideas, and continuously improving. Entrepreneurs who master this skill don’t just survive; they thrive.
Challenge:
This week, ask three people for feedback on your business or leadership. Implement at least one piece of advice and observe the results. How do you take in feedback? Are you open to it? Are you defensive? What’s the nature of your relationship with feedback? With the feedback giver?