Articles on Personal and Executive Coaching

Cultivating Uniquely Human Value: How Executive Coaching Clients Develop Emotional Intelligence to Thrive in the Age of AI

June 30, 2025
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

AI agents are on the horizon and will impressively handle many of the tasks currently performed by knowledge workers; however, uniquely human skills will become the key differentiator for outstanding leadership and career security.

Six Ways Coaches Can Refine Their Emotional Intelligence to Stay Ahead of AI

June 4, 2025
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBHWC

While AI tools offer efficiency and round-the-clock support, they lack something essential: authentic emotional intelligence that you, as a human masterful coach can bring.

Why Human Coaches' Emotional Intelligence Capabilities are Uniquely Relevant in an AI World

May 20, 2025
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

Despite AI coaching bots' advantages, a masterful human coach will continue to be irreplaceable for clients who want a wise, emotionally intelligent person who not only has lived personal experience they can draw on to ground their genuine empathy and support, but also truly cares about the client's well-being.

Understanding the Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach Credential and Positive Psychology Linkage

May 13, 2025
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

The NBHWC certification has become a sign of competency in the field and opens the door to new career opportunities.

The Auerbach REFS Model for Coaching Change with Emotional Intelligence, Part 4B: Coaching Techniques for Stress Tolerance

May 1, 2025
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

The conclusion of the series, this article provides additional coaching strategies and a case example of Dr. Lee, a leader who rose to the occasion of effectively using stress tolerance to shepherd a major change.

The Auerbach REFS Model for Coaching Change with Emotional Intelligence, Part 4A: Stress Tolerance

April 28, 2025
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

This article defines Stress Tolerance through the lens of emotional intelligence and coaching, explains why it is necessary for leaders guiding organizational change, or employees experiencing disruption, and provides evidence-informed strategies (including neuroscience insights) to develop this skill.

The Auerbach REFS Model for Coaching Change with Emotional Intelligence, Part 3: Flexibility

April 22, 2025
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

Flexibility, as a core emotional intelligence competency, enables us to adapt our thinking, behavior, and strategies effectively in the face of shifting demands.

The Auerbach REFS Model for Coaching Change with Emotional Intelligence, Part 2: Empathy

April 14, 2025
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

Empathy helps leaders build trust and psychological safety, which buffers against fear and resistance to needed change.

The Auerbach REFS Model for Coaching Change with Emotional Intelligence, Part 1: Reality Testing

April 3, 2025
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

The REFS model, which comprises Reality Testing, Empathy, Flexibility, and Stress Tolerance, is grounded in the principles of emotional intelligence (EI) and provides a framework for understanding and coaching individuals managing change.

The Auerbach REFS Model: The Four Factors of Leveraging Emotional Intelligence to Manage Change

March 25, 2025
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

Effectively managing change requires more than strategic planning and operational competencies — it demands high emotional intelligence (EI).

Navigating Changing Conditions with Professional Coaching

March 10, 2025
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

Executive and wellness coaching is now more than ever a sought-after career path and powerful tool to help individuals and organizations succeed in turbulent times.

Helping Federal Employees with Coaching

March 7, 2025
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

Recent mass layoffs within the federal workforce have generated widespread concern, leaving many employees feeling shocked, frightened and severely stressed.

How Coaches use Generative AI for Content Creation: A Practical Guide for Coaches

February 24, 2025
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

AI is becoming important for coaches to harness in several areas of our profession.

Coaching During Rapid Organizational Change: Supporting Clients in Uncertain Times

February 17, 2025
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

Many employees feel uncertain and anxious about what lies ahead. Whether the concern is about job security, adapting to new leadership, or dealing with evolving company strategies, these conditions can affect how clients view their careers and their sense of stability.

The Importance of Empathy and How Coaches Can Help

January 23, 2025
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

Empathy—the ability to recognize, understand, and appreciate the way others feel—is a necessary emotional intelligence skill at the heart of positive human relationships.

Adaptability: A Needed Skill and Five Coaching Strategies

January 13, 2025
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

As executive and life coaches, it's important to not only embody adaptability but also to help cultivate it in our clients when it becomes one of their top goals.

Start the New Year with a Clear Vision for Career and Life Satisfaction

January 6, 2025
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

Consider creating a more powerful vision for your fulfilling career and life—one that prioritizes purpose, balance, and the joy of helping others.

Why Developing a Well-Being Coaching Specialty is a Smart Move for Coaches

January 2, 2025
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

The need for well-being coaching has become increasingly evident as Gallup's latest research shows a decline in employee thriving.

A Gratitude Tool for You

December 23, 2024
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

A powerful gratitude exercise based on the work of Professor Emirates and College of Executive Coaching Faculty Member Robert Emmons, Ph.D., a leading expert in the science of gratitude.

The NBHWC Credential: Your Pathway to Success in Wellness Coaching

December 18, 2024
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

Over the last six years, wellness and well-being coaching has emerged as a new profession bridging the gap between healthcare providers and individuals seeking a sustainable healthy lifestyle.

Why Coaches are Getting Certified in the EQ-I 2.0

December 10, 2024
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

Emotional intelligence assessments are important in coaching, as they provide valuable insights into a leader's ability to understand and manage emotions effectively.

Five Reasons Managers and Executives Seek Professional Coaching

December 3, 2024
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

Coaching has become an increasingly common and desired professional development process for managers and leaders aiming to enhance their effectiveness and navigate the complexities of their organizational environments.

Coaching to Navigate Rapid Change

November 18, 2024
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

Coaching plays an essential role in equipping managers with the skills and resilience needed to lead effectively.

The Role of Executive Coaching in Reducing Burnout Across Professions

November 3, 2024
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

Professional coaching is uniquely positioned to address this growing concern. Its personalized approach and focus on individual growth make it an ideal tool for combating burnout and fostering resilience.

Six Reasons Why Team Coaching is Needed

October 30, 2024
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

As organizations strive to meet goals and adapt to new challenges, the value of cohesive and effective teams has become more apparent than ever.

Why Team Coaching is Important for Organizational Success

October 23, 2024
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

Team coaching is a targeted approach that enhances communication, collaboration, and productivity by focusing on team dynamics.

Team Coaching: The New Frontier for Executive Coaches

October 14, 2024
By Katie Hurtado, MA, ACC, NBC-HWC

Team coaching opens new avenues for making a significant impact within organizations.

Transitioning to Coaching: How HR Professionals Build a Successful Coaching Practice

October 3, 2024
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

Human Resources (HR) professionals are uniquely positioned to leverage their skills and experience to become successful executive coaches.

Career Satisfaction as an Executive Coach: Flexibility, Success and Fulfillment

September 9, 2024
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

If you've reached a point in your career where you crave more flexibility, a sense of freedom, and the opportunity to make a tangible difference in people's lives, then executive coaching might be the perfect path for you.

The Rising Demand for Executive Coaches: The World's Most Famous CEOs Speak Out

August 12, 2024
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

The role of executive coaches has become increasingly crucial, and more recently, coaching has expanded to become common at all levels in organizations.

Eight Reasons to Become a Certified Professional Coach

July 25, 2024
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

If you've ever felt the pull to make a more profound impact, experience greater professional fulfillment, or crave a change that aligns with your expertise and values, becoming a certified executive coach or wellness coach may be a wise career path.

How Coaches Can Help Clients Be Open to Developmental Feedback

July 19, 2024
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

The employee's response to feedback usually depends on how the feedback is delivered and how well the leader is prepared to receive the information.

The Power of Career Coaching: Elevating Professional Journeys

July 9, 2024
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

The professional coach who focuses mainly on the career coaching specialization assists individuals in advancing their careers and provides them with the tools and strategies needed to succeed in an evolving professional landscape.

Developing Our Uniquely Human Coaching Presence in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

July 3, 2024
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly powerful and prevalent in various professional fields, including coaching, coaches' unique human touch will become even more critical.

Introduction to Generative AI and Large Language Models for Professional Coaches

June 26, 2024
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

Coaches that learn how to use AI are going to have advantages in both building their coaching practices and in delivering masterful human coaching.

Unlock Your Potential as an Executive Coach

June 18, 2024
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

Executive coaching is a rapidly growing field that offers unparalleled opportunities for personal and professional development.

Jumpstart Your Thriving Coaching Career in Just Six Days

June 11, 2024
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

Imagine helping high performers excel even more, transforming lives and careers, including your own, by becoming a certified executive coach.

The Four Most Common Emotional Intelligence Problems That Cause Career Derailment

May 28, 2024
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

Career derailment refers to the unexpected and often sudden decline in an individual's career trajectory, often due to behavioral issues, poor interpersonal skills, or failure to adapt to changing circumstances.

How to Coach Clients to Manage Conflict More Effectively

April 23, 2024
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

The ability to deal constructively with others and manage conflict when it arises helps increase our well-being—at work and in our personal lives.

How to Coach for Empathetic Leadership

March 29, 2024
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

Leaders who score high on a balanced use of empathy transcend the conventional command-and-control mindset, by cultivating an environment of trust, care, and inclusivity, which builds commitment and engagement.

The Wellness Coaching Edge: Boosting Health and Happiness

March 12, 2024
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

All professional and amateur athletes work with a coach—and just as a sports coach helps an athlete develop their athletic performance, a wellness coach helps their clients excel at living their life.

The Power of Positive Psychology for Coaching: Enhancing Well-Being and Flourishing

March 1, 2024
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

Positive psychology, a field that focuses on the science of well-being and optimal functioning, is the science that examines how to have "the good life."

How Executive Coaches Help Create Organizational Health

February 26, 2024
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

Organizational health is the ability of an organization to align, execute, and renew itself faster than its competitors can, ensuring sustained and comprehensive performance over time.

Six Coaching Strategies to Enhance Work Relationships

February 21, 2024
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

Seventy percent of coaching clients report major benefits of coaching are enhanced workplace relationships, work performance and communication.

Unlocking Leadership Well-Being with Coaching

February 14, 2024
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

Leaders have a unique opportunity to create an optimal environment for organizational well-being by helping team members.

Why Self-Awareness is Critical for Leaders: Insights for Executive Coaches

January 16, 2024
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

Self-awareness is the foundation of an effective leadership style.

Coaching Through Your Own Imposter Monster

January 9, 2024
By Aashi Arora, MHA, PCC

Ever felt Imposter Syndrome? I bet you have. Research says over 70% of high achieving individuals deal with Imposter Syndrome, and I bet for coaches this percentage is higher.

How to Coach Clients for Work Life Balance

December 14, 2023
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

What are the biggest work-life balance challenges that you or your clients face?

How Do You Attract Executive Coaching Clients?

November 14, 2023
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

If you are thinking about how to recruit more executive coaching clients, the secret is to build your reputation, create awareness of your specialty and develop connections.

What Does Coaching Research Say about the Coaching Relationship, Personality Match, and Self-Efficacy on Coaching Effectiveness?

September 13, 2023
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

As coaching grows in utilization and organizational buyers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, we need to continue to explore what works best.

How Do Executive Coaches Determine Their Fees?

July 20, 2023
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

A widely asked question by newer coaches is how much to charge for their services. Likewise, more established coaches continually try to gauge the landscape of the coaching industry to ensure their fees are maximizing their profits.

The Why and How of Becoming a Board-Certified Wellness Coach

May 25, 2023
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

The market for wellness coaching has significantly grown in recent years and is expected to continue expanding in the coming years.

What are the Top Six Reasons Coaches are Hired?

May 25, 2023
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

The demand for coaching continues to rapidly grow. Recent research shows that most organizations that use coaching are reporting that their investment in executive coaching increased from 2020 to 2021.

Learn How to Use ChatGPT to Market Your Executive Coaching Practice

May 10, 2023
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

There are many ways you can use AI, such as ChatGPT or Bing AI, to market your coaching practice. Here are some suggestions.

Which Top Organizations Have Internal Coaching Programs?

April 5, 2023
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

Are you interested in the top reasons internal coaching programs are growing rapidly? Are you wondering what type of organizations have successful, well-established internal coaching programs?

What Do Coaches Need to Know About Edgar Schein?

February 2, 2023
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

Edgar Schein is known for contributions in the field of organizational development, career development, group process consultation, and organizational culture.

Wellness Coaching Demand and Earning Potential

January 26, 2023
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC, NBC-HWC

Wellness coaches are taking on a new and welcome role as an in-demand specialty coaching service and as an important component of integrated health care.

Next Wellness Coach Exam Dates Have Been Announced

August 15, 2022
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

Have you considered becoming a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach? Many professional coaches are adding this prestigious certification to their credentials.

The Increasing Demand for Executive Coaching

June 1, 2022
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

Coaching has turned out to be the most effective method for just-in-time leadership development and fortunately coaching via videoconference and telephone fit perfectly with the work from home trend.

How to Sell Emotional Intelligence to Leaders

April 13, 2022
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

Emotional intelligence (EI) is a person's ability to know themselves and understand others, as well as to manage themselves and manage their relationships with others. In the workplace, or one's personal life, this factor can make or break your overall success.

Positive Psychology Contributions to Culturally Competent Coaching

June 16, 2021
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

One of the most important qualities to possess in our rapidly changing and culturally diverse world is not our IQ, but our cultural intelligence.

The Five Disciplines of Team Dynamic Coaching

March 16, 2021
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

Team dynamics are often unconscious, psychological factors that influence the direction of a team's behavior and performance — and if not tended to, the team will often fail.

What is Team Coaching?

February 23, 2021
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

Team coaching helps teams reach their goals, while creating a sustainable environment that cultivates engagement, team health and success.

What is the Essence of the Transformational Coaching Process?

August 4, 2020
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

Transformational coaching is the art of assisting people to grow in line with their own aspirations, beyond their current reality, toward a new, evolving vision.

Coaching to Inspire Virtual Team Members to Excel

May 14, 2020
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

Now that a large percentage of the workforce are working independently from home, how do managers maximize the results of their team?

Ten Coaching Questions for Virtual Managers

April 27, 2020
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

The competencies of leading virtual teams are learned—we are not born with them. Many leaders tend to rely on what comes naturally and what has always worked for them.

Busting 3 Myths About Remote Work

April 8, 2020
By Stefanie Mockler, MA

How well a team can continue to be highly effective even when we are not in the same office.

Return on Investment of Strengths-Based Development

September 23, 2019
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

The largest, most comprehensive, global Gallup study examining workplace performance has proved the benefits of strengths-based development.

A Coaching Metaphor—Character Strengths: Nurture and Grow Them

August 14, 2019
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

If you want to develop more of your potential, learn about your character strengths. If you want to be a better coach, master the art of recognizing strengths and helping others know and leverage their strengths to achieve their goals.

Wellness Coaching: Latest Trends

August 5, 2019
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

Physicians are increasingly utilizing wellness coaches to help their clients live a healthier lifestyle.

Understanding How What Got You Here Won't Get You There

June 18, 2019
By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

What causes the most talented, ambitious, and successful professional to hit a career roadblock?

The Benefits of Business Coaching