Development of Coaching Competency Framework

This technical report describes a robust job analysis process that informed a 2019 update to the existing coaching competency model. More than 1,300 coaches from across the globe provided input to the job analysis through three face-to-face workshops, one virtual workshop, and a comprehensive validation survey.

This large-scale research initiative validated that much of the content in the existing competency model remains important to the practice of coaching today, although new themes and elements did emerge from the job analysis.

The new themes include a paramount emphasis on ethical behavior and confidentiality, the importance of a coaching mindset and ongoing reflective practice, the critical distinctions between various levels and types of coaching agreements, the criticality of partnership between coach and client, and the importance of systemic, contextual, and cultural awareness.

These updates resulted in a simplified and streamlined model that reflects emergent themes in the coaching profession. In the coming years and beyond, this model will strengthen and support critical aspects of coaching, such as training, development, and performance assessment.

This report is recommended reading for anyone who wants to learn more about the process that led to the 2019 update to ICF’s coaching competencies. It is also useful as a general resource for individuals who are more broadly interested in the process of conducting a job analysis and validating a professional competency model.