Perspectives on leadership coaching for regional tourism managers and entrepreneurs

'Peripheral areas experiencing an economic downturn in traditional industries such as agriculture often consider tourism to be a viable alternative. Unfortunately these areas do not always enter into the business of tourism with a very clear understanding of the associated difficulties and challenges' (Blackman et al.,2004). Blackman et al. (2004) analysed 11 case studies describing tourism development in peripheral regions from different parts around the world. A number of factors were found to contribute to successful tourism development in peripheral regions, including the use of private-public sector partnerships, the development of specialist attractions, strong government control and funding support, sound market research and community involvement lead by a local 'champion' (Blackman et al., 2004). This chapter will critically analyse the use of business coaching as a leadership development tool for tourism operators in regional destinations