The client as active ingredient: ‘Core self-evaluations’ as predictors of coaching outcome variance

This pilot study builds on previous research applying the ‘active ingredients’ model to coaching psychology and seeking to identify client traits that may predict coaching efficacy. It examines the relationship between the four ‘core self-evaluation’ traits (self-esteem, generalised self-efficacy, locus of control and neuroticism) and the attainment of contracted coaching goals. Data were collected from 45 participants on a co-coaching programme based in a UK university. A multiple regression analysis was conducted to test the hypothesis that there will be a correlational relationship between client ‘core self-evaluation’ scores and coaching goal attainment, with the results showing a positive but non-significant relationship. A reliance on self-reporting, an inconsistency in the use of Goal Attainment Scaling as a means of operationalising the criterion variable and a greater homogeneity in goals set are all suggested as possible improvements for future research on client coachability.