Why You Shouldn’t Do Executive Coaching (And I’ll Tell You Why)
Let’s be honest—executive coaching sounds like a scam, right? Pay someone to ask you a bunch of questions you already know the answers to? Sit through deep, soul-searching conversations when you could be out there making deals and leading teams? Waste time talking about leadership instead of just… leading?
If that’s what you think, I completely understand. In fact, I’m going to tell you exactly why you shouldn’t do executive coaching. By the end, if you still think it’s a waste of time, I’ll respect that. But there’s a small chance—just a tiny one—that you’ll see it differently. So, let’s dive into the iron-clad reasons why executive coaching is absolutely, without a doubt, not for you.
Reason #1: “It’s Too Expensive”
You’re a senior leader, maybe even a business owner. You know how to manage budgets, and the idea of spending thousands on something intangible—self-improvement—sounds absurd. That money could go toward hiring another team member, upgrading your office, or investing in new technology. But here’s the fun part: businesses don’t fail because they lack the latest software. They fail because leaders fail. Poor decision-making, lack of self-awareness, and an inability to adapt are what truly cost companies millions. Executive coaching is not an expense; it’s an investment.
A 2021 study by the International Coach Federation (ICF) found that 86% of companies that invested in coaching reported recouping their investment, with an average return of seven times the initial cost.
Still sound expensive? Take Alan, a CEO in the fintech industry, who dismissed coaching as an unnecessary expense. His leadership team subtly suggested (read: begged) him to try it after a particularly tense board meeting. Six months into coaching, his ability to navigate high-pressure situations had improved significantly, and so did his company’s bottom line. That year, they recorded their highest-ever client retention rate. Coincidence? Perhaps. But the best leaders aren’t leaving success to chance.
Reason #2: “I Don’t Have Time”
If you’re too busy for executive coaching, congratulations—you’re exactly the kind of person who needs it. It’s fascinating how leaders will say they don’t have time to reflect, yet they have time to fix repeated mistakes, put out fires, and deal with dysfunctional teams. The truth? Coaching doesn’t take time—it gives you time. It forces you to step back, see the bigger picture, and make decisions that prevent the chaos in the first place.
A study conducted by Manchester Consulting Group (2020) found that executives who received coaching reported a productivity boost of over 50%. Imagine reclaiming half your lost time just by learning to lead more effectively.
Sarah, a high-level executive in a global consultancy firm, came to coaching completely overwhelmed. She told me she was drowning in work, constantly putting out fires, and struggling to focus on long-term strategy.
After three coaching sessions, we identified that she was spending 40% of her time on tasks her team should handle. After implementing key changes, she not only reclaimed time but also saw her team’s performance improve. Eventually, she was promoted to regional director—something she later admitted would have been impossible with her old working style.
But sure, tell yourself you don’t have time.
Reason #3: “It Won’t Make a Difference”
This one is my favourite. The idea that a few conversations with a coach won’t change anything is like saying personal trainers don’t help people get fit. If that were true, athletes wouldn’t have coaches, and elite performers would rely on guesswork.
The reality? Even the best leaders have blind spots. Coaching doesn’t hand you answers—it helps you uncover them. It challenges your thinking, strengthens your decision-making, and forces you to confront the gaps you didn’t even know existed.
A MetrixGlobal study from 2001 found that coaching led to a 529% return on investment, with companies citing improved teamwork, communication, and leadership performance. A more recent 2019 survey by the Human Capital Institute showed that over 70% of leaders who received coaching reported improved work performance, relationships, and overall leadership effectiveness.
Take Michael, a director in the retail sector, who reluctantly started coaching. He was convinced he already had strong leadership skills—until a session revealed how his ‘direct’ communication style was actually alienating his team. After adjusting his approach over the following months, he noticed an increase in engagement and collaboration. Eventually, his department had the highest employee satisfaction scores in the company.
But, of course, none of that would’ve happened if he’d stuck to his belief that coaching “wouldn’t make a difference.”
Reason #4: “I Can Figure It Out on My Own”
You’ve made it this far without a coach, so why start now? That’s fair. But let’s look at the numbers: a Harvard Business Review study (2022) found that two-thirds of executives say coaching helped them improve their leadership effectiveness. If coaching were about spoon-feeding you answers, I’d agree it’s unnecessary. But real coaching isn’t about giving advice—it’s about unlocking perspectives you hadn’t considered. It’s about challenging assumptions, pushing you beyond your comfort zone, and ensuring you don’t spend years repeating the same mistakes.
Still think you can figure it all out alone? You probably can—but at what cost?
The ROI of Executive Coaching
You might still be wondering if the benefits of coaching are more than just anecdotal. Well, let’s look at some numbers that might surprise you.
- A 2021 International Coach Federation (ICF) study found that 86% of companies recoup their coaching investment, with an average ROI of 7x the cost.
- A 2020 Manchester Consulting Group study showed that executives who undergo coaching see a productivity increase of over 50%.
- A MetrixGlobal study (2001) found a 529% return on investment due to improved teamwork, leadership, and decision-making.
- A 2019 survey by the Human Capital Institute reported that over 70% of coached leaders saw improvements in leadership effectiveness and relationships.
- A Harvard Business Review study (2022) showed that two-thirds of executives felt coaching made them better leaders.
So, if you’re still on the fence, remember that executive coaching isn’t just about feeling better—it’s about performing better, too.
Conclusion: Maybe You Shouldn’t Do Executive Coaching—Or Maybe You Should
At the start, I promised to give you all the reasons why you shouldn’t do executive coaching. But if you’ve read this far, you might be wondering if these reasons are actually just excuses. The truth is, coaching isn’t for everyone. It’s not for leaders who want to stay comfortable. It’s not for those who believe they’ve mastered leadership. And it’s certainly not for those who think they don’t have anything left to learn.
But if you are the kind of leader who wants to sharpen your skills, make better decisions, and lead with more impact—well, maybe coaching is for you after all.
So, the real question isn’t why you shouldn’t do executive coaching. It’s why you haven’t started yet.
~ Lukasz Kalinowski