Client Stories: Leadership Coaching
Developing Executive Presence
Valerie was a controller in a global company. Perhaps atypical in the world of finance, she was all about relationships. Her Myers Briggs Type Indicator had the subtitle for her personality pegged as, "don't worry be happy." In fact, I'd hardly had a sunnier client. Along with her gift for numbers and analysis, she knew everyone, and everyone wanted to be of help her.
But having been targeted as a "high potential" she needed more of an "executive presence." in order to move forward. We looked at ways Valerie could be more visible, lead a meeting, demonstrate her expertise, and be willing to confront an issue or person when necessary... As soon as Valerie realized she could show up with these attributes without losing her essential nature, without becoming someone other than who she was, she was able to take more chances.
Basically, Valerie was able to take a more serious step into her natural power. Her new executive behavior was well received. Soon she was being recognized, tapped for significant projects, and even nominated by the CFO for a promotion.
Valerie wrote, as we completed our work:
I gained excellent 'tricks of the trade' for interactions in meetings, confrontations, and conversations. I am using these everyday. I intentionally take action, instead of letting things happen, so that I accomplish many things not previously thought possible. In summary: The roadblocks are down. The possibilities are open. The rewards are available.
—Post Merger Integration, Global Healthcare Company