The development and benefits of self-awareness through executive coaching in the South African banking sector

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore how self-awareness is perceived to be developed through the executive coaching with senior managers in the South African banking sector. The sample comprised 16 senior managers who were selected purposively, being those best qualified to provide the most accurate and effective responses. The study also examined the relevance of emotional intelligence to self-awareness through recognising one’s own emotions and how these influence others through self-awareness self-regulation, social awareness and relationships. The study further addresses how application of the Johari Window Framework can increase self-awareness through soliciting feedback and self-disclosure through reflection and being aware of what the different panes mean. The Johari Window can improve the executives’ insight into how they are perceived in the workplace improve their judgement and help to ascertain opportunities for development and growth. It also increases their self-awareness along with the benefits of this increased self-awareness and how it could potentially contribute to them achieving their personal and professional development goals. The beneficial effect of executive coaching towards the leaders’ self-awareness development was demonstrated through the leaders’ introspection and reflection, particularly on their innate strengths, and also soliciting feedback from their colleagues. KEY WORDS Self-awareness; Johari Window; Emotional Intelligence; banking sector; executive coaching