Coaching has become a widely used and valuable learning and development tool for the majority of UK organisations according to a recent survey.
16.11.07
Results also highlighted that although coaching within organisations is widely used, it is still in early stages. Challenges are around choosing the right coaching style, setting clear objectives, structuring services and evaluating the process.
As coaching is still being adopted, not all companies have in-depth expertise in managing coaching activities and in particular selecting and supervising external coaches.
Principal Consultant from The Beech Consultancy, Steve Benfield commented, “We are seeing more companies asking key questions around experience, ethics and ROI which is great as it means that the coaching standard bar will continue to be raised.”
Steve continued, “In my experience the best way to engage in coaching is to work with each company on an individual basis and understand their culture and their strategic goals.”
“That way you can set clear objectives from the outset and evaluate the success and ROI throughout the coaching agreement. This usually works best using three corner contracting with the coach, the coachee and the line manager. That way the objectives are shared and supported by all” Steve said.
As the coaching arena moves further towards regulation, we are likely to witness changes in the marketplace. Organisations will become more sophisticated about what they need and will want coaches to be able to demonstrate value for money and ROI. Coaches will have to have to demonstrate high standards and greater ethical practice.
(Source: CIPD 2007 learning & development survey)
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