Background

We were approached by a mid-size branding and design agency to support one of their Senior Account Directors following feedback during an appraisal that her communication style was perceived as overly direct and, at times, difficult for colleagues to work with. This was beginning to impact team collaboration and overall effectiveness.

Approach

A series of six structured coaching sessions were delivered over several months, focusing on:

• An initial psychometric test to help the employee to understand their normal working preferences and how they act when over and under extended

• Exploring self-awareness and emotional regulation

• Understanding communication styles in high-pressure situations and exploring how to flex this up to get the best out of people

• Building stronger collaborative relationships with key stakeholders

• Practical behavioural strategies to apply in day-to-day leadership

Coaching included real-scenario reflection, peer engagement strategies, and strengthening regular one-to-one relationships.

Key Shifts

Through the coaching process, the individual demonstrated a clear shift in mindset and approach. In particular, she developed the ability to pause and reflect before responding in challenging situations. This was evident where she reflected an increased awareness of others’ pressures and perspectives as they entered a particularly demanding pitch process. She managed to move from a directive approach to a more collaborative leadership style, and she took proactive steps to integrate more closely with wider teams including shifting her desk location to become more integrated with the team.

She identified her most important learning as giving herself “permission to step back” rather than reacting in the moment.

Impact

The coaching has allowed this employee to proactively improve her working relationships across the team. There is now a more measured, considered communication style and she has greater confidence in managing complex stakeholder dynamics.

By the end of the coaching period, she was operating from a more positive and balanced position, better equipped to lead and influence effectively.

Looking Ahead

In order to support continued development, practical strategies were agreed to help manage future challenges, particularly where alignment with senior stakeholders was less straightforward. It was also identified that wider leadership development, such as running a psychometric attesting for the entire leadership team,  could further strengthen team understanding, collaboration, and how individuals respond under pressure. The business is now moving forward with this solution for thier broader leadership team.

Overall this was a highly successful coaching intervention which enabled a meaningful behavioural shift, improved team dynamics, and positioned the individual for more effective, sustainable leadership.