Toward a conceptual model of executive coaching practices in organizations in the United States: A Modified Delphi Forecasting study

Abstract

This study examined the phenomenon of executive coaching, a leadership development strategy, from the perspective of executive coaches practicing in the field. An extensive literature review provided insight to the identification of the various components utilized in an executive coaching program. The current literature on executive coaching fails to articulate a coherent model of executive coaching. A Modified Delphi Forecasting method incorporating a mixed-method design was conducted to gather information on the strategies, and processes of executive coaching. The dominant quantitative portion of the data collection was acquired through Likert-type scale item questions that asked respondents to rate items in these areas. The secondary qualitative analysis was conducted to identify common phases of the coaching process and to elaborate on key concepts of the study.

Data analysis revealed group consensus in several key areas of executive coaching, including coaching techniques, the skills, and the relationship aspects essential to the clarification and further understanding of coaching practices in organizations in the United States. An eight-phase conceptual model emerged from expertise of executive coaches and the integration of concepts informed through the literature. Findings revealed group consensus in several key areas, including: specific coaching techniques, client outcomes, aspects of the coach and the client relationship, and the necessary components in the coaching process. Executive coaching is still intangible in its clarification of the definition, the techniques and the processes, yet the findings of this study provide direction for the field.