A few years ago, I started working with a new client. He had just stepped into the biggest role of his career.

He wanted a coach to help him find his feet. We had immediate challenges to work through. The transition was bigger than anything he had dealt with before. His predecessor cast a long shadow and left big shoes to fill. On top of all of that, there was the weight of family legacy. He was terrified of getting it wrong. 

We started with what was in front of us. Getting settled, uniting the team, setting short- and long-term goals, and generally helping him calm down. 

How the partnership grew

Over time our conversations grew deeper and wider. Some days we talked about strategy. Other days we dissected a difficult conversation. Other conversations were about organisational change or succession. And some days (too many days) we talked about Steve.  We all know a Steve. 

All these years later, we don’t have to cover any context. We’ve gone through it together. I’ve worked with his team. I continue to be his sounding board. And yes, we’re still talking about Steve.

My strategic partnerships are built on trust and long-term context. That comes from understanding your organisation, your people and the history behind the decisions you're making.

You'll have someone to think out loud with (and a sparring partner when you need one), someone to celebrate the wins with, and someone who can pick up right where we left off.