Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Certification Practice Test

Coaching is best described as:

1. A long-term relationship with impartial advice

2. A guided relationship with a more experienced employee

3. A non-directive exploration of issues

4. An autocratic management style

The correct answer is: A guided relationship with a more experienced employee

Coaching is best described as a guided relationship with a more experienced employee because it involves a dynamic where a knowledgeable individual provides support, guidance, and feedback to help another person develop specific skills or achieve particular goals. This relationship is inherently collaborative, focusing on the growth and learning of the coachee, who benefits from the coach's experience and insights. In a coaching context, the coach does not merely direct or instruct but rather facilitates the coachee's own understanding and problem-solving capabilities. This allows the individual to reach their potential in a supportive environment, which is critical in both personal development and professional growth. Other descriptions, such as a long-term relationship with impartial advice, may imply a more advisory role rather than a focused developmental one. While coaching can be long-term, it typically is structured around specific goals rather than just general advice. A non-directive exploration of issues pertains more to counseling or mentorship rather than coaching, which actively engages the learner in structured conversations about their performance and professional development. Furthermore, an autocratic management style is contrary to the essence of coaching, which thrives on collaboration and the empowerment of the coachee, rather than unilateral decision-making or control.