The impact of coach competencies on the outcomes of executive coaching in South Africa

Abstract

In South Africa, and globally, the coaching industry has seen a significant growth. Companies are focused on developing their leadership and as a result, have progressively been using coaching. Consequently, outcomes are expected. However, it is imperative to understand what contributes towards these outcomes. Since the practice of coaching has increased, companies need to scrutinise on who is best qualified to provide the coaching. The challenge is whether practitioners are suitably qualified to deliver on coaching outcomes. This study aimed to contribute to the literature on coach competencies impacting coaching outcomes. The study had identified four areas of coach competencies namely, coaching knowledge, psychological knowledge, organisational knowledge, and business acumen and sought to ascertain the impact on the coaching outcomes of goal attainment and self-efficacy. A quantitative research methodology was employed, and business and executive coaches were identified as the population for the study. The sample consisted of business and executive coaches registered with COMENSA as well as other individual coaches. A link to an online survey was provided and the Qualtrics platform was utilised. Anonymity of the respondents was ensured. The findings of the research showed a positive impact for one of the areas of coach competencies on the outcomes identified and non-significant impact on the other three areas. The findings provide insight to executives as well as the professional coaching associations. Research into coach competencies and outcomes of coaching is imperative as the aim is to professionalise the coaching industry and make it more credible.