View article

This article explores coachees and coaches views on aspects important in the formation of the coaching relationship. The research uses a qualitative methodology. Semi-structured repertory grid interviews were conducted with six coachees and six coaches in the UK. Using content analysis, three primary themes, of bond and engagement, coach attitudes and characteristics, and collaboration were elicited. Findings suggest that coach self-awareness and awareness of the coachee are important to both coachees and coaches; adaptation of the coach to the individual coachee was important to some participants; that the bond and collaboration were perceived differently by participants, however not by coachees and coaches; and that trust was a key aspect of bond and engagement. The quality of interpersonal interactions between coachee and coach, and an emphasis on co-creation of the coaching relationship …