Coaching as a leadership style

See the ‘Materials’ tab for a summary of Dan Goleman’s leadership styles.

Coaching crossed over from a professional sports context in the late 20th century thanks to Tim Gallwey’s Inner Game books in the 1970s. The fit is obvious. It is well documented that individuals are positively motivated by learning and developing at work. They also want to be connected to a greater purpose, which most workplaces are also well-placed to offer (e.g., UN SDGs now drive a triple bottom line of Profit, People and Planet).

Therefore, a coaching style of leadership encourages ownership, personal and professional development and connects individuals and teams to the purpose of the organisation.