Workplace Coaching: A Means for Promoting Motivation and Behavioural Shifts During Times of Change

This study explores workplace coaching, grounded in psychological theories, to examine its role in enhancing employee motivation and fostering positive behavioural changes. As part of a larger research project, the study employed a mixed-methods approach, beginning with a quantitative phase that identified the use of both internal and external coaching practices in the Australian rail sector. This article presents an exploratory analysis, specifically using thematic analysis, of emergent qualitative data from semi-structured interviews in Phase Two. Although the interviews were initially designed to explore specific aspects of workplace coaching, participants shared broader experiences that revealed unanticipated yet significant themes. Thematic analysis of these additional insights led to the identification of two key themes: Positive Behaviour Change and Improved Motivation. These findings are particularly relevant in the context of job insecurity, workload, role transitions, limited employee support, and concerns about productivity and job satisfaction during times of organisational change. This study offers insights for organisations, coaching practitioners, and policymakers by demonstrating how coaching supports employee motivation and fosters constructive behavioural approaches in response to challenges, particularly during times of change. While this study is focused on workplace coaching within rail organisations in Australia, its findings may contribute to broader discussions and offer potential insights for exploring the role of coaching in different organisational contexts.