Strategies to establish rapport during online management coaching

Abstract

Orientation: Online coaching (via a range of technologies) is becoming a preferred option as more and more coaches and clients embrace technology-enabled environments. One of the fundamental skills of coaching is the ability of the coach to build rapport with the client. Research purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore ways in which rapport can be established between the coach and the client during online management coaching. Motivation for the study: The authors believe that the creation of rapport online between the coach and the client cannot be left to evolve naturally and that the building of rapport requires the parties to invest intentionally to create connection and chemistry. Hence, this question: What can be done to optimise the rapport between client and coach during e-coaching? Research approach/design and method: To obtain primary data for this qualitative study, semi-structured interviews were conducted with six coaches and six clients who had experienced at least four online management coaching sessions without meeting the client or coach face to face. Main findings: This article provides practical strategies on how to build rapport during online coaching. With explicit articulation and consistent application, these strategies can help to improve interpersonal connection between coach and client. Practical or managerial implications: This study offers strategies to establish rapport between coach and client during online management coaching. Contribution/value-add: The results of this study inform the practice of online coaching as well as the design of coaching programmes for the future.