Leadership coach effectiveness as fostering self-determined, sustained change

Abstract

Drawing upon self-determination theory (SDT; Deci & Ryan, 2002a; Ryan &Deci, Olafsen, & Ryan, 2017) and intentional change theory (ICT, Boyatzis, 2008), we offer an integrative conceptual model to define what constitutes an effective leadership coach. We propose an effective leadership coach enables sustained change on the part of the leader being coached. We apply SDT and ICT to explain the motivational dynamics, facilitated by the leadership coach, involved in effective leadership coaching. Specifically, we assert that leader sustained change is achieved when the leadership coach works to satisfy three inherent human needs in the leader (autonomy, relatedness, and competence) through facilitated self-discovery and purposeful action on the part on the leader. Satisfaction of these needs gives rise to the motivation and subsequent action to change. We present propositions to invite further coaching research and discuss how the proposed conceptual model applies to leadership coaching practice.