There are many books out there on the topic of coaching. A recent Google search for books on business coaching yielded over 500,000 results. So, why did we decide to write yet another book about coaching, and what makes this book different?

As behavioral practitioners, we have used coaching as an organization development tool to improve individual, team, and organizational performance. Through many years of application in private sector, government, and not-for-profit organizations, we have carefully measured our successes and mistakes. We have incorporated our learning into a model that represents best practices on many fronts.

First, we present coaching theory in combination with organizational and adult learning theory. We have provided a theoretical framework so you can consider the observations and suggestions presented herein within a larger context of human behavior and change. Second, we provide specific questions, job aids, templates, and resources to help readers design, research, present, implement, and assess a coaching program that will add value to their organizations—everything from managing organizational politics to developing coaching guidelines. Third, we outline a fluid coaching process for establishing coaching relationships, gathering supporting data, developing goals, dealing with resistance, and moving toward tangible results.

So, what didn’t we do? We did not write a handbook for coaches. We do not provide an exhaustive search of the literature nor endorse one particular coaching school or style. We do not discuss individual or life coaching as it occurs outside of organizations. And we do not discuss in detail the effect of multicultural elements in the workplace. We encourage you to seek out other texts that address these topics more specifically.

We have combined the best of what we know about organizations and coaching. The reward we have seen for organizations where coaching is practiced successfully is substantial—defined purpose, dynamic relationships, and tangible results. We invite you to read this book, apply the content, and experience it for yourself.

Virginia Bianco-Mathis
Cynthia Roman
Lisa Nabors

August 2008