Does coaching work?

Does coaching work?

KearnsP. Training Journal, June 2006, Viewpoint

Purpose – reports UK research that looked at whether coaching works in practice. Design/methodology/approach – describes the origins of the research project, which was undertaken by the Business West and Business Link Somerset – Management and Executive Coaching Service for SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises). Outlines the Baseline Evaluation System which was used to evaluate the state of the small businesses before managers were given coaching. Indicates the return on investment gained from coaching the managers and provides anecdotal evidence from participants of the value it offered. Findings – concludes that coaching is effective if it is delivered by competent coaches and if it is focused on achieving measurable outcomes. Underlines the need to be committed to evaluating coaching properly for the technique to be effective. Originality/value – considers whether coaching is effective.

Keywords: Coaching, United Kingdom