ABSTRACT

Coaches will use a range of tools to help support their clients, no matter the area of focus in the discussion. However, it is important to ensure that the use of such tools is relevant and that the coach is trained in their application. If psychometrics are being introduced then the coach needs to understand the value they will add to the conversation once feedback is being given. Validity and reliability are key elements to be considered as is the training needed for the coach to administer and provide information on findings. Often such tools are used to identify strengths or weaknesses in the client, and how these are impacting on that person’s behaviour, attitudes, and decision-making. In the context of retirement, there is a place for applying measurement tools of different kinds, but to date there are limited examples in use in that marketplace, apart from some being used for financial planning purposes. In this chapter we explore some of the challenges in the design and administration of such tools in the retirement coaching process and provide some examples which might be considered.