Frequently asked questions.
What exactly is executive coaching, and how is it different from mentoring or therapy?
Executive coaching is a structured, forward-focused partnership designed to sharpen your skills, shift habits, and deliver measurable improvements. While a mentor’s perspective often reflects the priorities and values of an industry insider, a coach is free to focus entirely on you. Coaching zeroes in on your goals, challenges, and leadership impact, providing tools, perspective, and accountability that lead to tangible progress you can see and track. And unlike therapy, it’s not about unpacking the past.
What outcomes can I realistically expect from executive or leadership coaching?
Expect greater clarity, sharper decision-making, stronger self-awareness, and a leadership style that feels genuinely yours. You might communicate more powerfully, stay steadier under pressure, or influence more effectively. Beyond personal growth, organisations often see measurable ROI in areas like team performance, engagement, and retention. That’s because coaching helps you think, act, and lead more intentionally, thus producing results you can see in your impact and in the metrics that matter.
Is coaching only for people who are struggling, or is it also for high performers?
Coaching isn’t remedial but developmental. The leaders I work with are already accomplished. But they’ve reached a point where their expertise alone no longer cuts it. In the words of Marshall Goldsmith: “What got you here, won’t get you there”. They’re ready to lead more effectively in complexity, to influence rather than just execute, and to grow into the version of themselves the next chapter demands.
How do I find the right coach for me?
Credentials matter. Choose a coach with solid training, professional accreditation, and proven experience coaching leaders at your level. Beyond that, look for someone who asks thoughtful questions, listens well, and isn’t afraid to challenge you. But you also want someone who sees the best in you, even when you don’t. A chemistry call is always the best way to find out whether you feel seen, stretched, and safe enough to work together. Do get in touch below to set up a call.
What actually happens in a coaching session?
We talk, of course, but it’s not just a chat. My sessions are focused, honest, and often quite surprising. I’ll ask the questions you’re probably not asking yourself, reflect back patterns you might not notice, and offer practical strategies when it helps. Sometimes it’s big-picture visioning, other times it’s how to handle tomorrow’s board meeting. Either way, you’ll leave with insight and some clear next steps.
How long does a coaching engagement usually last, and how often are sessions?
Most engagements run for between three to six months, with sessions every two to four weeks. Long enough for real change, but focused enough to keep momentum. That said, I also offer shorter “flashpoint” sessions when you need clarity fast, and longer partnerships for clients navigating big transitions or complex leadership seasons.
What’s the ROI of coaching and is it really worth it?
The return depends on what you bring and what you’re willing to shift. Clients often report more influence, clearer thinking, stronger communication, and better relationships (not just at work). Some get promoted, some change direction entirely, others feel more in control. For organisations, benefits often show up in measurable gains like team performance, engagement, and retention. When leadership sharpens, everything around it tends to perform better too.
How can coaching help me grow as a leader, especially when I already have expertise?
Because expertise can only take you so far. Influence, presence, and emotional steadiness are what unlock the next level, especially when you’re juggling competing demands, managing high-stakes relationships, or leading through uncertainty. Coaching helps you move from knowing to leading. At your level, it’s no longer about being the smartest person in the room. It’s about inspiring others, navigating complexity without burning out, and staying grounded while driving results that matter.
Can I ask my company to pay for coaching, and how should I approach that conversation?
Yes, and many do. Framing matters, of course. My advice is to position coaching as a strategic investment in your leadership, rather than a sign you’re struggling. Talk about the business outcomes, like better communication, leading through change, or supporting a team more effectively. I’m also happy to provide a proposal or speak with HR if helpful.