Coaching

Corporate Clients

Corporate coaching usually begins with an initial meeting or teleconference with the sponsor and/or the client’s line manager at the start of the coaching programme to assess the client’s current opportunities and challenges, define the scope of the relationship, identify priorities for action, and establish specific desired outcomes. Coaching programmes often begin with a 360º feedback process, the results of which are then reviewed between coach and client. Further relevant psychometric assessments may also be carried out as part of the coaching programme.

Corporate coaching is normally conducted face-to-face. Sessions may take place at the client’s business premises, or off-site to avoid interruptions or distractions. Sessions normally last one-and-a-half to two hours once or twice a month. Each coaching session usually deals with a specific issue or goal. Between scheduled coaching sessions, the client will implement specific actions that support the achievement of their goals. The coach may provide additional resources in the form of relevant articles, checklists, assessments, or models, to support the client’s thinking and actions.

Coaching can be supplemented by e-mail and/or telephone communication to provide just-in-time support on specific issues, problems or opportunities. Coaching programmes usually last for six months but the duration of the coaching relationship varies depending on the client’s personal needs and preferences.

About halfway through the coaching programme there may be a review meeting or teleconference at which the client will meet with the sponsor, and/or line manager, and the coach, to ensure that progress is being made towards addressing the needs previously identified. There is usually a further three-way review meeting at the end of the coaching programme at which progress can be evaluated and outcomes assessed. The client will be encouraged to reflect on their achievements to date and to identify future development goals and a plan for achieving them with the support of their line manager or other resources.