Coaching for career capital development: a study of expatriates’ narratives

Abstract

This study explores, through stories, how coaching supports the development of expatriates’ career capital; it is the first empirical investigation in this area. A narrative analysis was conducted to explore semi-structured interviews. Coaching was perceived to support the development of career capital capabilities (‘knowing-how’, ‘knowing-why’ and ‘knowing-whom’). When coaching expatriates, it is important to review their needs, previous assignment experience and phase of expatriation. As a practical implication, organizations should consider coaching support for expatriates. The career capital model is recommended as a tool for institutions training coaches, and for coaches, when coaching executives in international transition situations.

Keywords

• Expatriates
• career-capital
• coaching
• narratives