The "Face-to-Face Is Better" Assumption
When it comes to coaching, it is commonly assumed that the face-to-face format is more valuable. This makes intuitive sense: physical proximity, body language, and the energy in the room.
But research challenges this assumption.
A meta-analysis by Grant and Gerrard (2020) compared online coaching with face-to-face coaching. The finding: the effects on goal achievement, self-efficacy, and well-being do not differ significantly between the two formats.
Why? Because the key factors that determine coaching effectiveness—trust, active listening, powerful questions, and client engagement—are independent of the physical setting.
Unique Advantages of Online Coaching
It’s not just an alternative; in some cases, it’s the preferred format.
Geographic flexibility: You don’t have to be in the same city. You can access a coach with the right expertise from anywhere in the world.
Participation in one’s own environment: Some clients say being at home or in their office makes it easier to talk. “I can speak more comfortably here” is a common piece of feedback.
Flexibility: It eliminates travel time. It becomes easier to maintain consistency with coaching even with a busy schedule.
Things to Keep in Mind
Online coaching has potential drawbacks, but they’re manageable:
Distractions: Notifications should be turned off, and a quiet environment should be ensured. A routine of “spending 5 minutes preparing before the session” resolves most issues.
Limited body language: Camera angle and quality partially limit body language. A good camera and lighting setup help minimize this difference.
Connection quality: A stable internet connection is a prerequisite.
Cevvela’s Approach
Cevvela’s coaching sessions are conducted online. This is not a limitation; it is a conscious choice. The ability for clients to participate in the process from their own spaces and at their own pace—along with the opportunity to access the sessions from different parts of the world—actively supports this format.
Cevvela’s Perspective
- Research shows that online and in-person coaching are comparable in effectiveness (Grant & Gerrard, 2020).
- The factors that determine coaching effectiveness—trust, engagement, and relationship quality—are independent of the physical setting.
- Online coaching offers a more comfortable and accessible format for some clients.
- Distractions and setting up the environment are practical factors that influence the quality of online coaching.
- Cevvela conducts sessions online—not out of necessity, but by choice.
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