Did You Know?

The practice of coaching outside the athletic arena may be a new concept for many. But for a number of years the business world has made use of coaching with significant results. Numerous public and independent educational institutions have also used coaching with positive effects for the school and its staff. As educational institutions continue to understand the value of coaching and utilize its practice, meaningful results like the business world will also occur.

So, what can coaching offer educational institutions?

Documented studies have shown the following results from coaching:
• Improved performance and productivity
• Enhanced staff development
• Improved learning
• Improved relationships
• Improved quality of life for individuals
• Increased creative ideas
• Provided more effective use of staff, skills, and resources
• Encouraged greater flexibility and adaptability to change
• Increased staff motivation
• Transformed organizational culture
• Developed life skills
• Focused individuals on organizational as well as personal goals (Whitmore)

According to the International Coach Federation Survey of coaching participants:
• 62% reported smarter goal setting
• 60% reported improved work/life balance
• 57% reflected lower stress levels
• 52% reflected more self-confidence
• 43% reflected an improved quality of life
• 33% reflected an improvement in health and fitness

The Manchester Review (2001) survey of 140 companies showed that nine of ten executives believe coaching to be worth their time and dollars. The average return for profit motive was more than $5 for each $1 spent” (Denver Post).

In the Metrix Global Survey (2008):
• 81% experienced job satisfaction
• 71% improved working relationships with supervisors
• 77% improved relationships with those who reported to the executive
• 67% improved with team members
• 63% improved working relationships with peers
• 37% reflected improved relationships with clients

The survey results stated that coaching produced a 529% return on investment and significant intangible benefits to the business. The study provided powerful new insights into how to maximize the business impact from executive coaching.

As educators, the ultimate goal of a school is student success.”Surveyed leaders believe that a coaching culture increases focus on developing others and managing performance, increases sharing and utilization of knowledge; leads to more participation and transparent decision making, and makes learning and developing a priority”(Leadership Academy). Coaching can provide educators with these experiences empowering educational leaders to impact the school culture and ultimately student success.