Five Benefits Of Executive Coaching That Might Surprise You - Cynthia Laden Newman
Executive coaching is sought by numerous leaders looking to enhance their leadership abilities and adapt to the ever-evolving nature of the workplace. Although coaching proves invaluable during periods of change, its benefits extend beyond such moments, encompassing everyday career-related considerations as well. I read an article published in Forbes, titled Five Benefits Of Executive Coaching That Might Surprise You, the article stood out to me due to its precise outline of the benefits of executive coaching.
Here are some of the benefits of executive coaching, according to me:
- As an executive coach who primarily works in the financial services industry with senior leaders, managers, and financial advisors, I believe connecting with a cohort group can be extremely advantageous. I encourage managers to align themselves with leaders in their organization that have demonstrated consistent results and a high level of integrity.
- Creating individual thought leadership is especially important for the longevity of one’s career. Identifying how to strategically present yourself takes energy, time, and effort; having guidance with this process can be instrumental.
- Developing your executive presence and having self-awareness on how you are perceived by others is of utmost importance. An executive coach can add tremendous value by encouraging self-discovery, asking open-ended questions, and being a soundboard as you move forward with your career.
- When you think of it, every great athlete has at least one coach to assist them reach their goals. Executive coaching provides discussion, feedback, and suggestions that will allow you to be the best version of yourself. Ultimately inspiring you to realize your personal and professional goals.
- Executive coaching is about persuading one to think outside the box, identify areas of growth and potential and motivate execution. It’s about identifying opportunities for improvement and exploring possibilities. Executive coaches provide a platform for an individual to share their thoughts and ideas in a safe and secure environment.
Here are the benefits highlighted in the article:
1. Combat executive isolation.
While most leaders initially turn to an executive coach to address a particular issue or grow in a certain area, they may quickly realize that the coaching relationship also helps mitigate their feelings of isolation and loneliness.
2. Improve your thought leadership
Another potential benefit of partnering with an executive coach that tends to fly under the radar is the opportunity to build your thought leadership.
3. Elevate your executive presence.
An additional hidden benefit of working with an executive coach is refining your executive communication skills and influencing abilities. Most leaders can use support in becoming better communicators and influencers, and coaches can help with this.
4. Operate in your zone of genius.
There’s a common misconception that executive coaches only focus on your blind spots. Like a sports coach, an executive coach can guide you in effectively playing to your strengths.
5. Increase your self-confidence.
Importantly, effective executive coaches don’t tell you what to do or how you’re supposed to lead your team or organization. Rather, they support you in identifying your available options, weighing the benefits and risks, and creating a path forward.
Connect with Cynthia on LinkedIn.
****
Cynthia Laden Newman is a forward-thinking strategist and creator of sustainable growth. Formerly a managing director with global financial services leader Morgan Stanley, she currently serves as the chair of a nonprofit foundation, an executive coach to senior executives, and a mentor to rising executives. The overarching theme of her career has been her laser focus on leadership, human capital, governance, problem-solving, and value creation for stakeholders and shareholders.
