Coaching is built on a foundation of several elements:
Self-reflection, Self-observation, and Commitment to Self-Development
Once the foundational skills are developed, Kari Uman uses an organic approach with her clients, tailoring the process to their issues and concerns. She uses a variety of techniques to support the development of new skills and levels of awareness.
Kari worked with one client on increasing her leadership presence for a Senior Executive Service (SES) position in the Intelligence Community. This client was able to make such profound, long-term improvements she once noted that, “Kari changed my life.”
When Kari first met Betty Ann, she had recently been promoted, but lacked confidence or assurance to lead in her new position. Kari began the coaching engagement by suggesting that Betty Ann start observing herself when she walked into meetings—how often she spoke up, how she used her voice, and to observe how others responded to her in these situations. Once Betty Ann began to observe herself and others’, Kari then suggested that she begin to self-reflect on what message her behavior conveyed to her staff, peers, and manager. How did this impacted her ability to effectively lead and to be seen as a leader?
Kari helped Betty Ann develop skills to reduce her anxiety, allowing her to demonstrate confidence and ability as soon as she entered a room. She asked Betty Ann to identify a role model in her organization, imagine how the role model might show up in these situations. Kari then recommended that she try out new behaviors that were outside her comfort zone. Each time they met, Betty Ann reported on what new behaviors she tried, what worked, what didn’t work, and gradually built up her confidence. This translated into a more powerful presence that was aligned with her new position.
After 18 months of Kari’s personalized coaching, Betty Ann became a more effective leader in the Intelligence Community.
“A coaching view affirms that by inspiring discovery, reflection, and persistence in another person, that person becomes capable of significantly greater achievement, deeper and broader thinking, and more consistent expression of their values over time.”
– Douglas Riddle, Center for Creative Leadership