How do you measure success in coaching?

With Defy Expectations coaching we are often asked by both clients and their employers what measures of success we use.  When we think of sports, like football or tennis, success for a coach is often measured by team performance or tournament wins. But in professional or personal development coaching, the measure of success is much harder to define.

How do you know if coaching works? It’s not just about immediate results or ticking boxes. True success in coaching comes from observing behavioural change in those being coached. Whether it's improved decision-making, increased confidence, or the ability to handle challenges differently, the real transformation happens over time. For behaviour change to really stick takes between six months and a year.

The key takeaway here is that success is in the eyes of others, not in the eyes of the person being coached, nor in the opinion of the coach themselves.

But in a busy organisation how do you ensure others notice the positive changes? Here are some tests that we use:

1. Gathering Feedback from Peers: Regular peer or team feedback captures others' observations of behavioural shifts.
2. Progress Reflection Sessions: Creating spaces for the coachee to share their progress with managers or stakeholders.
3. Visible Leadership Actions: Ensure the coachee has opportunities to lead, allowing others to witness their new skills in action.
4. Mentoring or Peer Coaching: Encouraging the coachee to mentor others, showcasing their growth.
5. Track Metrics: This is not always possible but where KPIs can be aligned with coaching goals it can give effective indicators.

By creating visibility and encouraging feedback, you help ensure the positive changes coaching brings are recognised by those around them.

Talk to us at www.defyexpectations.co.uk if you want to transform yourself or others.