Ahh Coaching: Trouble The Comfortable

The interesting thing about coaching is that you have to trouble the comfortable and comfort the troubled.

Ric Charlesworth

Professional development involves coaching. It is a process of self-awareness, application and reflection. Improving yourself through learning and training has advantages. Just as great sportsmen hire coaches, professionals can improve their craft with a personalized and objective coach.

That said, people’s perceptions of coaching necessity vary and there are myths, but there is a growing recognition of its value in professional development.

1. General perception: There’s been an increasing trend towards viewing coaching as valuable, particularly in corporate settings. However, it’s not universally seen as “necessary.”
2. Executive coaching: A survey by the International Coach Federation (ICF) found that about 86% of organizations saw a return on investment from coaching. This suggests a high perceived value among those who have experienced it.
3. Leadership coaching: Many large companies now include coaching as part of leadership development programs, indicating its perceived importance.
4. Career coaching: The demand for career coaching has grown, especially with the rapid changes in the job market and increased career transitions.
5. Percentage who think it’s necessary: It’s challenging to give an exact percentage as perceptions vary widely across industries, cultures, and individual experiences. However, here are some relevant statistics:
   • A study by the Harvard Business Review found that 48% of CEOs who had coaching said they were open to changing their behavior as a result.
   • According to a report by PwC, 50% of firms surveyed used coaching as a key part of their learning and development programs.

These numbers suggest that while coaching is increasingly valued, it’s not universally seen as “necessary” by everyone. The perception tends to be more positive among those who have experienced coaching or work in organizations that regularly use coaching services.

It is important to note that these figures can change over time and may vary significantly depending on the specific context (e.g., industry, individuals, company size).

So there you have it. Different perceptions of coaching and it’s necessity. Many understand and appreciate its value. Are you one of them? What’s your own perspective? Do share. We would love to hear.

Cheers!