Coaching for Career Capital Development: A study of expatriates’ narratives

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 semistructured interviews. Coaching was perceived to support the development of career capital capabilities (knowing-how, -why and -whom). When coaching expatriates, it is important to review their needs, previous assignment experience and phase. 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.

Key words: Expatriates, career-capital, coaching, narratives.