Coaching with Emotional Intelligence: an Experiential Approach to Creating Insight, Connection, and Purpose
Journal Title: Journal of Experiential Psychotherapy - Year 2017, Vol 20, Issue 4
Abstract
Introduction: Executive and life coaching have never been more important. Stress, in both the workplace and personal life, is on the rise, prompted by increases in speed, complexity, and uncertainty (Korn Ferry Institute, 2015). For leaders coping with a challenging business environment while trying to manage interpersonal relationships, the need for guidance and support is critical. On a personal level, navigating a world in which self-knowledge, optimal decisions, and a sense of purpose are invaluable requires skills, practice, and encouragement. Objectives: The objective was to identify key elements of an effective coaching relationship. The focus was on enhancing the experience of coaching, for both the coach and client, by incorporating concepts and practices from emotional intelligence (EQ) into the process. Augmenting coach training with EQ was a parallel design goal. Methods: The research method was a stratified survey of practicing coaches and clients to identify emergent themes related to a) what blocks clients’ progress, b) what methods are most powerful for coaching, and c) why is EQ important in coaching? The survey included 1138 participants from 88 countries, with coaches segmented by hours of professional training. Results: Areas of similarity and difference were found between newer and more experienced coaches. Powerful coaching methods reported included a) client-focused and goal-oriented reflective questions, b) engagement and active listening, and c) a focus on emotional strengths, mindfulness, and self-understanding. Coaches and clients agreed that incorporating concepts and practices of EQ, including the use of EQ assessments, enriched the process by promoting insight, facilitating connection, and clarifying purpose. Conclusions: Introducing EQ into professional coach training and practice can enhance the experience of coaching for both the coach and the client. Adding EQ to the coaching process places an emphasis on emotional self-awareness, relational dynamics, practical skill development, and purpose-driven sustainable change.
Authors and Affiliations
Paul Stillman, Joshua Freedman, Marilynn Jorgensen, Susan Stillman
Keywords
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