This whitepaper on executive coaching explores the perceived preferences from the perspective of the coaches about the factors that make an effective match with coachees including whether matching should be done based on the similarity of these factors or the differences of these factors. Data was collected using a survey research design. Results indicate that coach-coachee matching should focus on similarities in cultural insights, business acumen and experience of the coach while gender, age, traits and mindsets and outlooks and perspectives do not play a relevant role in the matching process. Similarities in competencies should be prioritised instead of personality traits during the matching process. In addition, there was a small number of coaches who would prefer to match with coachees who are low on conscientiousness, openness and agreeableness, highlighting the importance of challenging coachee mindsets and beliefs.

Download the whitepaper and let us know your thoughts on what makes a good match between a coach and a coachee.