The article explores whether leadership coaching truly makes a difference for senior managers in international non-governmental organizations. The study arises from the challenge faced by leaders in these organizations as they shift from activist roles to complex management positions that demand advanced leadership skills. Coaching is presented as a vital tool for leadership development tailored to the needs of this sector. The methodology involved semi-structured interviews with 18 senior managers from 8 countries, focusing on their personal experiences with coaching. Findings revealed high levels of satisfaction with both the process and the coaches, alongside clear benefits:
- Increased self-awareness and the ability to recognize blind spots
- Greater cognitive flexibility and strategic thinking
- Stronger confidence and sense of capability
- More positive attitude toward work and the organization.
Additional organizational benefits included improved communication, conflict management, leadership transitions and a healthier workplace culture with reduced burnout. The article concludes that despite the costs of coaching, the personal and organizational gains justify the investment. Practical recommendations include embedding coaching within leadership development programs, combining group and individual coaching, involving direct managers, and planning coaching processes that extend over six to twelve months.
Research quote “Arumugam, S. (2018). Leadership Coaching: Does It Make a Difference? Coaching Perspectives, Issue 18, Association for Coaching. (July 2018)”