We know from psychology and the study of human behaviour that our beliefs about others’ abilities have a direct influence on their performance.
Unless a manager or coach believes that an employee has more potential than they are currently showing, he or she will not be able to help the employee with development. When people feel like someone genuinely believes in them, they often rise to meet those beliefs.
To get the best out of people, we have to believe the best is already ‘in there.’