After recording his first win as Carlton's senior coach last week, John Barker says his transition into the top job has been “so far, so good”.

While the Blues had a rocky start to the 2015 season, the bye has provided a fresh start with Barker sparking energy, passion and spirit into the team.

Speaking on SEN on Friday, Barker said the Blues' competitive edge must continue this week against the Gold Coast Suns at Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

“We’re just keen to keep on giving the intent we’ve been giving,” Barker said.

The interim coach emphasised the bond between coach and player is “really important” when you’re encouraging that constant intent at the football.

“I see relationships with players as really important - they’re a different demographic these days to what they use to be.

“They respond when they know you’ve got a care and empathy for them and philosophically that’s the way I go about my relationships,” he said.

As well as focusing on intent, good decision-making – like when to give the handball, when to kick or when to run and carry – is also something Barker wants his team to work on.

“It’s about playing the game that’s in front of you and we’re really keen as a club to keep educating the players to play what they see in front of them,” he said.

When asked what his coaching future holds, Barker said his focus is solely on the short term – for now.

“It’s a great experience either way and the boys are really responding which is helping," Barker said.

“I’ll keep doing what’s most important, which is coaching this team as hard as I can.”