Creating high-quality coaching conversations: a video-based analysis of executive coach behaviour in initial coach–client interactions

Coaching outcome research has made progress over the past decade. However, studies providing insights into coach–client interactions remain scarce – especially those including experienced professionals. The study takes a video-based approach to elucidate how coaches initiate high-quality coaching conversations. Our hypotheses regarding relevant coaching behaviours refer to the coaching entry phase and are theoretically based on Rogers’ core conditions and meta-analytic findings on co-regulation. The analysis was based on 90 video recordings of initial coach-client encounters (average age 50). The recorded coaching sessions lasted 20 minutes each and were part of an accreditation process for executive coaches. Four independent observers analysed the coaches’ interpersonal behaviour and their use of specific interventions (e.g. appreciation, contracting, reflections). Accreditors and observers assessed working alliance and coaching performance as outcomes. Findings suggest that high-performing coaches tended to behave in a neutral to dominant manner, were friendlier and were more likely to use simple and complex reflections. Surprisingly, in online coaching negative effects of complex reflections occurred. Female coaches and clients received higher outcome ratings. The results advance the understanding of microbehaviours in initial coach-client conversations and inform evidence-based human resource and coach development.