A Journay into the Heart of Coaching-based LeadershipEmpirical Findings within the Organizational Context

Abstract

The main objective of this thesis project is to advance the stream of research on coaching-based leadership by providing theoretical and empirical evidence for its value and role within the organizational context. To achieve this goal, first a systematic review is presented, which provides an overview of the coaching-based leadership concept, measurement, and links with two key work-related outcomes (work engagement and performance). Next, two related empirical studies were included aimed to design and validate a specific coaching-based leadership scale, and to analyse its links and underlying mechanisms with work related outcomes (psychological capital, work engagement and in-role and extra-role performance). Finally, two longitudinal quasi-experimental studies were conducted: the first one explores the impact of a strengths-based micro-coaching program on work engagement and performance, with the ultimate goal of validating positive interventions aim to develop coaching-based leadership in organizations, and the second one examines the efficacy of a coaching-based leadership intervention program on enhancing coaching-based leadership skills, psychological capital, work engagement, and performance. The results of the different studies advance on the coaching-based leadership theory development by shedding light on its concept, underlying dimensions, measurement, and key role in enhancing personal resources, psychological well-being, and performance. They also highlight the usefulness of positive interventions to develop and increase this leadership style in organizations and its impact on work outcomes.