Author: Ahern, Geoffrey

Source: The Journal of Management Development, Volume 24, Number 1, 2005 , pp. 94-99(6)

Publisher: Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Abstract:

<B>Purpose</B> - This article opens up for debate a new perspective on professional quality in externally supplied coaching. <B>Design/methodology/approach</B> - Three provider size-types are taken in turn and interpreted in relation to characteristic quality issues. <B>Findings</B> - Professional quality characteristically varies with different types of coaching provider. Three primary provider types are identified: large conglomerates (often multinational); the solo market where coaches work as individuals; and the specialised coaching team or "boutique". Provider size is suggested to be the key quality-related variable distinguishing these three types. Professional quality is specified inclusively through identifying the factors currently in the coaching quality debate. This allows a menu of factors to be considered non-judgementally in relation to the provider types. <B>Practical implications</B> - The article suggests how the characteristic size pluses can be realised and the minuses avoided. <B>Originality/value</B> - Provider size does not seem to have been debated before as a key variable in coaching quality.

Keywords: Coaching; Management development; Mentoring

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/02621710510572371

Publication date: 2005-01-01

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