An empirical investigation of coaching ingredients: the role of the coach-coachee relationship in influencing coaching outcomes

ABSTRACT An important issue in coaching research is determining the role of the coach-coachee relationship in influencing outcomes. Although some studies have found that the relationship is a predictor of outcomes, others have reported contrary findings. Using random assignment and a switching-replication design, this study had two aims: first, to examine the alignment (i.e., perception, evaluation) of the relationship during the coaching; and second, to determine if the alignment of the relationship influences coaching outcomes. The relationship measures included the working alliance and goal-focused coaching, as rated by the coach and the coachee. The coachee’s direct supervisor rated the coaching outcome measured by a leadership-behaviour assessment. The research studied fifty-six coaching dyads who engaged in four face-to-face, 1-hr coaching sessions over a 4- to 6-week period. The results showed that the coaches’ and coachees’ evaluation of the coaching relationship became less, rather than more, aligned across time. Further examination showed the alignment of the relationship (goal-focused or relationship satisfaction) did not influence the coaching outcome, as rated by the supervisors. Implications of the results for coaching theory, research, and practice are discussed.