Business coaching has been one of the most popular trends in the talent development and skills training sector within the corporate world. However, the figure of the coach can be confused with others, for example, that of the psychologist. In the following lines, we want to explain to you in a general way what this methodology called business coaching consists of and, most importantly, how it relates to work psychology. Pay close attention and don’t miss any details!
What is occupational psychology?
To begin with, work psychology is the study of human behavior in the work context. And, the application of evidence-based theories and principles of human behavior to organizations. Occupational psychologists engage in a wide range of activities. However, the ultimate goal of all of them is to create optimal work environments for people to thrive, perform and increase their productivity.
If we analyze from the beginning, both work psychology and business coaching have a common objective: the development of personnel at a professional and motivational level so that they assume their roles and achieve business objectives together with their co-workers, at a higher or lower level.
Who is the professional who practices occupational psychology?
In theory, a psychologist is the professional who practices and performs work psychology. However, well-trained business coaches can also do it. In fact, work psychology is a fundamental part of integral coaching. The application of various psychological theories and principles to different workplace problems is the responsibility of a coach. Moreover, they work closely with employers, managers and employees. In particular, they deal with how employees and organizations function and behave at work. They use the same knowledge as a general psychologist, but apply it to organizations.
Remember…
By understanding how and why people and companies behave in a particular work environment, work psychology-based coaches aim and seek to improve the overall performance and effectiveness of an organization. This improvement may be related to employee retention or training. They may also work to create ways to improve the well-being and health of team members. As Jose L. Melendez; CEO of ChVmpion Mind rightly states:
“The difference between very good people and exceptional people is not in their skills, talents or strengths, it’s in what and who they rely on to develop them in an exceptional way and for long enough to make a difference.”
ChVmpion Mind, is not only a platform for business coaching professionals, but also for work psychology. So, they can act as consultants in organizations to address different issues such as employee morale; work hand in hand with business owners and leaders to address organizational issues such as: leadership training, organizational development, work-life balance of employees, etc.
Of course, work psychology and business coaching have certain similarities. Fundamentally in the fact that the professional tries to make the employer or employee exploit the best of himself, motivating him and channeling his knowledge to strengthen his skills. Both a business coach and an occupational psychologist seek to promote the performance of the company’s personnel.
So… What does a work psychology-based coach do?
These professionals are responsible for doing numerous things, including those listed below:
- They use psychological methods and theories to help companies and their employees. Using experience and expertise, they help organizations and companies address and correct workplace issues and problems.
- Although business coaching professionals can work for all types of companies, they are primarily hired by organizations that have many employees. In addition, companies whose employees often work under a lot of pressure may seek the help of these professionals.
- Job responsibilities may vary depending on the type of company or business they work with and the company’s goals. To this end, estimates suggest that 93% of true professionals have been trained to become professionals in the field and assume the inherent responsibilities.
In addition…
- Because this field is a specialized niche, occupational psychology and business coaching professionals often use broader techniques and methods. They may develop programs to improve leadership and communication skills or reduce stress. In addition, they can assist organizations in their training and hiring programs.
- To improve the overall effectiveness and performance of the company, based on work psychology, its strengths and weaknesses can be assessed. This process involves communicating with employees, working with management or high-level teams to identify problems, and reviewing past work histories.
- Once problems are identified, coaches develop strategies and policies to correct and address them. For example, they help companies design a reward system to motivate their employees.
- They also help organizations and companies place employees in the jobs for which they are best suited. This may involve administering aptitude and personality tests to find out the areas in which an individual or team member may be best suited to excel in their job.
Business coaching and work psychology, what are the differences?
Despite the similarities, there are differences between business coaching and the work of an occupational psychologist. Are you clear about it?
First of all, business coaching is an improvement technique. In fact, we should not forget that the term coach comes from “car” which designates the horse-drawn carriages of the 17th century that made it possible to go faster in order to go further. The business coach will first conduct an audit of a company’s marketing, relational and financial strategies. Then, the coaching will allow to establish solutions to improve the different services of the company. Now, let’s see what work psychology is all about…
Secondly, work psychology has a qualitative objective. It is about supporting the human being. The definition of work psychology is the study of Man in the professional environment. Thus, the work psychologist will accompany each stratum for a better feeling in the company and easier relations between employees. It will also help to reduce psychosocial risks.
Coach or psychologist, what to choose?
The big question: Is it better to choose a business coach or an expert in work psychology? We are inclined to say that it all depends on your needs. Indeed, if you need to increase your turnover or improve your marketing strategy, increase productivity and decrease demotivation at work, for example, you should call a business coach! On the other hand, if you want to get closer to your employees or relieve tensions in your company, call a work psychologist.
