How do we know coaching works?

One of the key differentiators of Leadership Evolution is that our coaching techniques and methodologies are evidence-based – that is, drawn from research that helps shape our approach.

Executive coaching is relatively recent and has yet to build as impressive a body of theory, case studies and verified methods as that of other fields, whether in business or in psychology. As an organisation, or as an individual, you are right to question the real knowledge about behavioural change behind any executive coaching services that you may be considering. Because the question is – how do we know that coaching works?

At Leadership Evolution, we draw on an evidence base – that is, valid and reliable research - to help develop and review our coaching practice. This approach:

  • centres on hard data and clear evidence that show how coaching improves the performance of individuals, with supporting data on the economic benefit for an organisation or enterprise (see our section on Return on Investment for more information).
  • enables us to develop coaching as a process that is methodical and effective, tailored to clients needs.
  • allows us to measure our impact and reliably repeat executive coaching success across a range of different settings and contexts.

Besides the evidence from our own coaching programs, there is a growing body of literature and authors building the evidence base for systematic and effective executive coaching, including the research documented in the International Journal of Evidence Based Coaching and Mentoring. We add in existing, complementary knowledge in related fields such as psychology, management and brain based research to complete our capabilities and bring the best current knowledge in order to decide how coaching should be delivered on a case-by-case basis – NOT just a formula driven approach.

If you are seeking results oriented, evidenced-based executive coaching with reliable results, then Leadership Evolution is here. Call Alison Jardie on 0400 340 171 to discuss your executive coaching needs, and how the latest techniques can turn that discussion into real results.

If you wish to learn more about the research that informs our coaching practice, here are a sample of journal articles you may like to refer to:

  • Peel, D 2008, What Factors Affect Coaching and Mentoring in Small and Medium Sized Enterprises, International Journal of Evidence Based Coaching and Mentoring, Vol 6 No 2 pp 27 – 44. Available from: <http://www.business.brookes.ac.uk/research/areas/coaching&mentoring/volume/6-2-3%20%20Peel.pdf> [27 Feb 2009]
  • Stewart L, Palmer S, Wilkin H & Kerrin M 2008, The Influence Of Character: Does Personality Impact Coaching Success?, International Journal of Evidence Based Coaching and Mentoring Vol 6 No 1 pp 32 – 42. Available from: <http://www.business.brookes.ac.uk/research/areas/coaching&mentoring/volume/stewart.pdf> [27 Feb 2009]
  • Vaartjes, V 2005, Integrating action learning practices into executive coaching to enhance business results, International Journal of Evidence Based Coaching and Mentoring, Vol 3 No 1 pp. 1 – 17. Available from: <http://www.business.brookes.ac.uk/research/areas/coaching&mentoring/volume/vol-3-1-a-vaartjes.pdf> [27 Feb 2009]