The Cube of Coaching Effectiveness
Coaching effectiveness can be measured in terms of individual performance, individual well-being and the coaching relationship
Gauging the effectiveness of a coaching engagement is important for determining ROI but it is not always easy to do.
New research just published in the International Journal of Evidence-Based Coaching and Mentoring created a model for measuring coaching effectiveness. They call it the “Cube of Coaching Effectiveness” and the three dimensions that contribute to coaching effectiveness are individual performance, individual well-being, and the coaching relationship.
Individual performance
Improvements in individual performance can be evaluated by self-assessment, or internal assessment in the workplace, such as 360-degree feedback. It can also be evaluated by assessing the satisfaction of the client’s psychological needs. According to self-determination theory, we need to feel a sense of autonomy, competence, and relatedness/connection to feel satisfied, and fulfillment of these needs enhances intrinsic motivation which leads to enhanced performance.
Individual well-being
Individual well-being is complex but can be measured in progress in the following areas: autonomy, positive relations with others, environmental mastery, self-acceptance, purpose in life, personal growth, positive emotions, engagement, and achievement.
The coaching relationship
The quality of the coaching relationship is determined by the coach’s competency, knowledge, and skills, the client’s perception of the coach’s effectiveness, and the dynamics of the coaching relationship. The coaching skills needed for a successful coaching relationship are active listening, unconditional positive regard, the ability to challenge and empower the client, and the ability to hold the client accountable.
Source: The Cube of Coaching Effectiveness, by Jarosz, J., published in International Journal of Evidence-Based Coaching and Mentoring, 2023, Vol 21 (1).
The sweet spot
The most effective coaching involves a high score in each dimension—or each side of the cube. A highly effective coaching engagement will involve a strong coaching relationship and will lead to clear increases in both performance and well-being on the part of the client.
