Coaching in the Age of Change

Given what’s happening in the world at a macro level in terms of politics and the economy and the impact all of that has at a micro level on the day-to-day lives of individuals, I think coaching (in broad terms) is going to grow in demand in the next 5-10 years.

I recently researched coaching predictions and trends, and here’s what stood out to me…

Technology and AI are here to stay

The coaching industry is going to have to embrace technology and AI to help scale, reach more clients and differentiate their offers. Coaches should think about hybrid models where they bring together 1:1 coaching, digital follow-up, and group platforms.

Group coaching will only continue to grow in importance

It may not always seem like it now, but people need other people to learn and grow. Connection is the only way we’re going to get from where we are to where we want to be collectively. I think there will be a greater push for community based/group coaching versus 1:1 coaching.

‘Whole person’ coaching will be the standard approach

Coaching impacts everything - resilience, wellbeing, mental health, etc. While it may never be the intended position, coaching is truly about the whole person. Life cannot be separated from work and vice versa, therefore, we need to take all aspects of ones life into consideration when coaching. For example, the coaching offers that integrate career/leadership growth and personal identity, wellness, self-care, parenting roles will become a differentiator.

Women’s leadership coaching will rise

The research shows coaching is expanding in organizations beyond senior executives, into mid-level, emerging leaders. With companies looking to retain female leaders at all levels and roles, coaching will be an important tool for doing so. Despite the current climate, companies will increasingly invest in coaching programs for women leaders (especially given the already existing focus on retention, diversity, equity).

Ethics, Regulation & Professionalisation Will Increase

As AI, digital tools, and technology expand, ethical concerns (data privacy, coach credibility, standards) are rising. There is already increasing discussion about formal standards, credentialing, outcome measurement, even regulation in some jurisdictions. So coaches who adhere to professional standards will stand out.

Final thoughts

Now of course, I don’t have a crystal ball, but like every industry, the coaching industry is going to continue to evolve and change. And because it heavily relies on people, it will have to adapt to the needs of the people it serves. And while I do believe technology is going to play a big role in this shift, I also think the humanness of coaching has to remain in tact. There’s no substitute for real connection, real stories, real partnership. If coaches can remember to stay authentic to who they are while embracing what’s coming, they’ll be ready to take on any challenges and opportunities that show up.