Newcastle University

A recent small scale study of the SDU's coaching work carried out has revealed a 50+ times return on the original investment for senior managers as well as evidence that with more junior staff the return is still significant.

Although a range of anecdotal case studies and qualitative reports have always given us excellent examples of the impact of coaching on the individual and the organisation, this study provided evidence for the first time of the impact on the University's key business drivers and the bottom line.

Many interviewees spoke about the power of our 360 degree processes and the quality of the coach/client relationship. People appeared to be committed to coaching because the agenda and the timescales are set by themselves. The carefully selected and briefed coaches were highly praised as were the thorough admin processes and links to other HR initiatives like probation and PDR.

The evaluation exercise found that the coaching process was especially effective at developing those with high potential and in key roles. Additionally impact was recorded against key business objectives and a significant return on the original cost of the coaching was revealed.

The University's significant annual investment in coaching appears to be contributing to the success not just of the individual but also the business of the university- a genuinely pleasing outcome.

To find out more about the Newcastle study or coaching please contact Lynne.howlett@ncl.ac.uk.