Research studies confirm that coaching leads to positive outcomes. Among others, coaching will increase self-confidence about reaching goals. In surveys, clients often list as most helpful the input of the coach and feedback that they receive . 

However, often overlooked but nevertheless extremely powerful is another aspect of coaching: Accountability.

In a good client-coach relationship, the coach will regularly inquire about progress toward goals and what has been accomplished since the last meeting. As it turns out, this is a strong motivator: Knowing that the coach will follow up, makes the client more likely to follow trough with necessary action steps.

“If someone has thought about taking some action, but is the only person who knows about it, it is much easier to postpone taking action.” (Jack Zenger, American Society for Training & Development)

In sum, coaching works because the coach will ask the client to commit to action by asking typical coaching questions such as “What will you do?” and “When will you do it?” and later then follows up with questions about the status of the plan. 

Author: Christiane Turnheim. Christiane is Life Coach, teaches psychology at a community college in Massachusetts and is author of the book “Job-Satisfaction – Learn to Love Your Job”.  Website:  www.coach4u.net ; email: ten.u4hcaocnull@enaitsirhc