How executive coaches assess and develop emotional intelligence in the executive suite

Abstract

This qualitative research study explores the connections between executive coaching and emotional intelligence (EI) when working with senior level executives. The focus is on coaching the senior executives (chief executive officer, chief financial officer, senior vice-presidents) of companies of over $1 billion dollars in revenue. Since research indicates that EI is a valuable predictor of performance for executives, this study seeks to discover the how executive coaches assess and develop EI with their clients. This study is of importance to multiple audiences. First, it provides the research community with insights into how executive coaches perceive and report on the focus of EI as part of their practice. Second, the findings report on how executive coaches assess or measure EI with their senior level clients. Last, this study explores strategies coaches employ to help their executive clients develop EI competence, as well as what areas of EI coaches perceive their clients struggle with the most. The insights gained through this study are intended to challenge organizations, educators and executives on how to assess and develop EI through education, experiences and other methods identified in the study. ^