Why it’s worth investing in coaching today
11 September 2025 | Comment(s) |
Simon Stawecki
Work environments are changing at a rapid pace. Technological progress, globalisation and societal changes are a constant source of new challenges for companies and employees alike. Things that were considered a recipe for success yesterday are often outdated today. With new technologies, changing forms of communication and a sweeping shift in values, it’s time to rethink leadership and collaboration.
Today, the qualities in demand are flexibility, openness and a willingness to continuously learn. As for companies, they have a responsibility not to leave their employees alone in this shift. To survive in this dynamic environment, they need to offer more than just processes and tools: they need to empower people, provide guidance and create space for development.
Shortages of skilled workers: a wake-up call for employers
Demographic change is further exacerbating these challenges. The University of St. Gallen points to forecasts that even with limited immigration, up to 400,000 jobs could remain unfilled in Switzerland by 2030. Companies are therefore well-advised to focus on their employees. Cultivating a feeling of closeness, offering tailored support and paving the way for long-term relationships are investments in stability and future viability. It is in every company’s own interest to recognise and promote the potential of its employees and work with them on their further development. That’s because strong teams are essential to the long-term success of a company.
Coaching as an effective development tool
This is where coaching – as a tool for providing tailored, personalised support – comes in. The International Coaching Federation (ICF) defines coaching as a collaborative partnership that supports clients in achieving personal and professional goals. It enables in-depth learning, promotes self-efficacy and contributes to long-term performance and quality of life.
Groupe Mutuel’s approach to coaching: targeted, effective and people-oriented
Against this background, Groupe Mutuel has launched an internal coaching programme with the aim of offering coaching in areas of the company where it will be particularly effective. Following an analysis conducted in close consultation with a member of general management, the Contact Center was selected to receive the coaching in the first instance – a department with around 400 employees working at a fast pace and under constant pressure to meet expectations. Around 100 employees who have stood out in recent years through consistently high performance and a high level of dedication were targeted specifically. One-on-one discussions were held with these employees to discuss the objectives of the project and coordinate their participation in the coaching.
Highly promising initial results
The project, launched in April 2024, has been received positively throughout the company. After just a short time, the strong need for tailored support became clear – as did the potential that coaching unlocks. Feedback from participants clearly demonstrates the benefits of the project:
- 85 % of participants would strongly recommend the coaching programme to others.
- 88% overall satisfaction with the experience, which highlights the quality and impact of the coaching.
- 91% of participants reported positive effects on their work performance.
- 100% noticed an improvement in their personal and professional well-being.
What coaching participants have said
- “The coaching has helped me to refocus – not only in my job, but also for myself.”
- “I have learned to communicate more clearly and set priorities more consciously.”
- “It’s good to have a safe space where you can simply reflect.”
Coaching as a key to resilience in organisations
In times of change, we need more than just structures and systems: we need strong personalities. Coaching helps employees to use their strengths more effectively, develop new perspectives and approach their day-to-day work with more energy and accountability.
The pilot project in the Contact Center shows that if people feel seen, supported and encouraged, trust is created, and trust leads to higher performance.
Groupe Mutuel is leading by example in this respect, and is currently looking into how its coaching programme can be expanded to other areas of the company. This marks a strong step towards securing future viability, with people at the centre.
