Coaching in the Hi-Tech sector
A series of coaching sessions for the managing director of a Hi-Tech company, that focused upon the personal and professional aspects of running a fast-moving business geared for rapid growth.
Background
A series six coaching sessions were provided for the Managing Director of a hi-tech business based in the south-east. Employing 200 people, the business was set for major expansion.
This example demonstrates the breadth of coaching; in addition to specific business issues, the coaching addressed a wide range of personal and professional issues.
Purpose of coaching
To provide support, raise performance and act as a ‘strategic partner’ with the MD over the 6-month duration of the coaching programme.
What issues were brought to coaching?
At the conclusion of the process, the client MD was asked to describe the issues she brought into coaching:
• Understanding how personal life experiences and perceptions affect professional performance, leadership and management and breaking those barriers down
• Developing an appreciation of achievement and recalibrating expectations of the same
• Improving work-life balance without feeling guilty
• Taking time out from day-to-day obligations to focus on the strategic direction of the business
What impact did the coaching have?
The client MD was asked to describe the differences has coaching made to the business
• Changes that needed to be made happened more swiftly and with greater confidence, the business is now in a better position as a result.
What specific benefits resulted from the coaching?
The client MD was asked to describe the specific benefits she had derived from the coaching:
• A change in approach to leadership and management has resulted in improved recruitment and management of suitable key personnel.
• Certain key decisions were made possible as a result of breaking down personal barriers leading to improved personal performance and generating greater opportunities for the business.
• Taking the time to put day-to-day issues aside in order to focus on strategic issues has enabled clarity of thinking regarding several perceived obstacles. Challenges and obstacles were put in to perspective and thought about creatively and objectively. Realisable and concrete plans were then facilitated which have helped moved the organisation forward.
What general benefits resulted from the coaching?
Finally, the client MD was asked to describe the benefits of using coaching as a developmental support tool for high growth businesses:
• Business issues are often related to personal issues and these have to be dealt with in context too
• Making the time for discussing the business with a trusted third party enabled clarity of thinking which can only benefit the business – without a coach it is less easy to justify making that time.
• Having a trusted sounding board outside of the organisation was very helpful.