We all know the mantra ‘all talk and no action’ yet, in my experience, talking is exactly what can lead to positive action when clients are faced with a significant career challenge.
The difference is active listening, through which the client guides themselves towards fresh perspectives, helping them adapt and adjust their workplace attitudes and behaviours, whatever their dilemma.
Based on recent clients, in their own words, here are 3 actual scenarios and how we worked together to resolve them. If any of these resonate and you feel a ‘thinking partner’ is what you need please get in touch.
1)TRANSITION AND NAVIGATION
Should I go or should I stay?
“Our business had to radically restructure and I had trouble transitioning from our years of high growth to a slower-paced environment. Together we worked through dealing with managing the expectations of both my team and myself. It was great having Fiona both as a completely non-judgmental sounding board to pitch and brainstorm different ideas, as well as an intelligent foil to challenge my assumptions and to help clarify my thinking and decisions. In the end I was able to navigate this particular period much better than on my own as well as developing the tools to continue moving forward in my career within the changing circumstances.”
Marketing Director, Global Security Company.
Staying and adapting to new circumstances in a company where you are highly valued is achievable by reframing what seems a negative situation into an opportunity and creating a clearly defined road map.
2) DEFINING A NEW ROLE
How can I lead differently?
“Fiona’s insightful and probing questioning helped me think more deeply about my role and extensively change my leadership approach. Her coaching style is to create the right environment and momentum for you to gain your own new and sometimes surprising perspectives. She is a very active listener and provided me with a toolkit to identify my blind spots and work to remove stumbling blocks to my leadership growth and development. More importantly, Fiona facilitated a process of discovery that helped me find a renewed sense of purpose in my career.”
Managing Director, Global Debt Company.
Even those with years of senior management experience can hit an impasse and struggle with how to change their typical ways of thinking and acting. A fresh pair of eyes and more importantly ears can help spark insights that lead to positive change and renewed drive.
3) FINDING AGENCY
How can I get my voice heard?
“Fiona is a wonderful listener, patient, non-judgmental and thoughtful. She empowers you to come up with solutions to challenges and opportunities you might face in your career, providing practical tools, tips and reading lists – which I really loved. At the end of each ‘walk and talk’ coaching session, I felt upbeat and positive and that I had agency to make small, impactful changes in areas such as influence, social capital, work life balance and new career opportunities.”
Communications Director, City Livery Company.
Opening up conversations through outdoor ‘walking and talking’ sessions create an invigorating space to explore small changes and new behaviours to confidently stand up and stand out, finding your voice in the workplace to help thrive in your career.