Why Representation Matters in Coaching

A great coach can coach anyone. Still, we recognize the need for coaches that reflect the marketplace. In a coaching or learning development engagement, having coaches who reflect today's global and diverse workforce, global and diverse, with a wide range of lived experiences has the potential to enrich spaces with increased psychological safety that can give room for more vulnerability. This is where the transformation that drives innovation and growth happens.

Supporting Managers of Employees With Disabilities Case Study 

We were recently engaged to support a program focused on managers who have or may soon have employees with disabilities in APAC (Asia-Pacific region). For this engagement, our client specifically wanted certified coaches who lived/worked or were from the region and had a disability themselves or had deep expertise in the area (e.g., professional background or immediate family member with a disability). Our coaches supported 15 managers and having coaches who reflected this community fostered trust, psychological safety, and created an openness that primed the managers to engage deeply. We saw key results in fostering a collaborative environment and in sharing experiences.

Workshop Success Outcomes:

• 91.67% reported gaining valuable skills.

• 83.33% expressed confidence in applying what they learned.

• Participant feedback: "I’m excited to bring these concepts back to my team. I believe discussing them will help me provide better support as a manager." 

• One of our coaches described the experience as "truly rewarding," emphasizing group dynamics and vibrant energy. A strong connection was felt between the coaches and participants.

Data reflects the importance of representation in creating a supportive learning environment. These results highlight the effectiveness of our inclusive approach, proving that representation isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a must-have in creating supportive, productive environments.

Jake Foreman, C-Suite Coach, reflects on his experience working on this program.

In coaching, representation entails a range of skills aimed at enhancing understanding and boosting participant engagement:

• Cultural Understanding: Coaches from diverse backgrounds can foster inclusivity, deepen cultural awareness, and enrich the coaching experience for all participants.

• Tailored Strategies: Coaches attuned to disability challenges can help clients devise personalized strategies that more effectively address their needs.

• Advocacy for Resources: Coaches who recognize systemic barriers can challenge coachees to advocate for crucial resources and support, empowering individuals to unlock their full potential.

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