I had breakfast last week with an executive and was asked the following questions: "How do you know you're being successful in your work with people? How do you measure success?" The success of this executive is measured in black or red. It will be based on money made, deals made, sales made, income generated, etc.

I wish mine were as easy. How do I measure success in coaching/mentoring clients? My answer for my effectiveness as a coach/mentor is the same for my life.

This is not the first time I have heard a question like this. While in my doctoral program, the hottest debate was whether counseling was an art or science. In other words, how does one measure success in counseling? Today, how is my work evaluated in the coaching arena? If it's an art, then I am evaluated on my relationship with the client. Does the client feel listened to, cared for, supported, given information that's helpful, feel a sense of encouragement, coaching or teaching that is effective? If it's a science, the emphasis is with objectives and goals accomplished. Were there 12 objectives completed, noticeable behavioral changes rated, financial bottom line increased, turnover decreased, and other relative facts improved? So which one is the best one for me as a coach/mentor to be evaluated? How do I know I have been successful with clients in the executive arena?

I think an effective executive coach needs both. However, to me the goals (science) are not as important as the direction (art). Goals and objectives that can be measured are important. No question. But in my opinion the distinguishing factor for an effective executive coach to be evaluated is the direction he/she is headed. 

Goals are mile markers...they tell progress. Goals are important because we need to be held accountable. However goals are not an end all in themselves. The most important factor for a person's success, significance and basic satisfaction in life comes from the direction headed, not necessarily in the goals attained. Goals and direction are distinguished by what's urgent (goals) and what's important (direction). In the end it will not be the attainment of the goal but the direction of the journey that will bring the greatest significance to the person's progress.

Therefore the "scientific" conclusion reached in school for the most effective counseling hasn't changed in my experiences as a coach and mentor. Goals need to be identified by asking the client, "What do you want? And how can I help you get there?" But my primary responsibility as a coach is to build that alliance with the person (which accounts for 30 percent or more for effective change) and then help govern and develop proper direction.

My personal overall focus is to make sure when goals are accomplished and the person gets to the top of the ladder (success), it's not against the wrong wall (significance).  The same is true for my life.