Sarah is a director at a large cleantech organization whom I had the privilege of supporting to acclimate to her new leadership role.

Getting started with executive coaching

To help establish a solid foundation for our work together, I provided Sarah with a questionnaire so she could reflect on her challenges and opportunities. This thought work helped her create the space to think big picture. It was the start of how she shifted her perspective in some key ways.

Then, during our session, we talked through her challenges and aspirations. Through our dialogue, we clarified her overarching goals.

From there, I guided her through developing milestones for each goal, which continued throughout our coaching engagement. I supported her in identifying target dates for each milestone.

I also helped Sarah tap into resources to accelerate her growth. For example, I shared with her an online storytelling platform and guided her through how to use it to get more clear on her strengths and personal qualities. The platform also presented her with an easy way to collect feedback from trusted allies such as colleagues (past and present), friends, and family. Sarah used the platform to create a clarification sketch and statement, as well as exploration plans for possibilities she was curious to explore, such as opportunities for public speaking, skill-building, and collaborating with new partners.

Facilitating growth through executive coaching

During our coaching sessions, we recognized her learning and progress. We’d talk through the challenges she facing, and we identified the next steps for her to take.

We used online tools to help keep track of the goals, milestones, and target dates. This helped us be organized, effective, and efficient throughout the coaching engagement.

Benefits of executive coaching

Based on the areas we focused on, these are examples of the benefits Sarah generated within just a few months of our work together:

• Strengthened collaborative skills, fostering better relationships with interdepartmental colleagues and external stakeholders.

• Heightened self-assurance, enabling active participation in meetings and effective self-advocacy.

• Polished executive demeanor, facilitating impactful presentations to the C-Suite.

• Sharpened decision-making skills.

• Strengthened project management abilities, including refined planning, delegation, and execution.

• Enhanced communication, both orally and in written form.

• Improved organizational proficiency, particularly in time management.

• Expanded capability in establishing appropriate boundaries and preventing overextension.

How will your organization’s leaders benefit from executive coaching?

What benefits could you achieve by investing in executive coaching?

If you or your organization are seeking an executive coach, reach out.