Ability, motivation and opportunity: managerial coaching in practice

The practice of managerial coaching is increasing globally, although there is still comparatively little research into it. Using an online survey, we examined the practice of managerial coaching in Australian organisations through Appelbaum et al.'s Ability Motivation Opportunity framework. A t...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Asia Pacific journal of human resources 2020-01, Vol.58 (1), p.149-170
Main Authors: McCarthy, Grace, Milner, Julia
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
ability motivation opportunity
Coaching
Employees
leadership
managerial coaching
Motivation
self‐determination theory
training
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Summary:The practice of managerial coaching is increasing globally, although there is still comparatively little research into it. Using an online survey, we examined the practice of managerial coaching in Australian organisations through Appelbaum et al.'s Ability Motivation Opportunity framework. A thematic analysis of 580 responses revealed that managers regularly coached their own employees and were motivated by the outcomes they achieved through coaching. Emerging strongly from this research was the delight managers took in seeing their employees transform, as well as improved relationships and the (re‐)building of trust. Furthermore, coaching resulted in employees becoming more innovative and ready for change. However, managers did not always have the opportunity to undertake coaching due to time constraints or their dual role as a coaching manager. We shed further light on the motivation of managers and we offer recommendations for HR departments seeking to foster managerial coaching in their organisations. The key takeaway is that managerial coaching is a powerful approach to leadership. Key points Coaching by managers is increasing. Coaching managers report benefits including personal satisfaction, employee transformation, and positive organisational outcomes. Managers have the ability and the motivation to coach but not always the opportunity. Specific training and ongoing support for managers are recommended for HR managers seeking to encourage the adoption of managerial coaching.
ISSN:1038-4111
1744-7941
DOI:10.1111/1744-7941.12219