Author: verawoodhead

McKinsey & Company and LeanIn.org recently published their 10th anniversary report on Women in the Workplace While women have made progress in some areas, there is still much work to do to create a workplace experience that is inclusive and equitable for everyone. · Women’s representation in the C-suite has increased to 29%, up from…

This week, I had the pleasure of reconnecting with two former clients – one from 4 years and another from 3 ago. 🙌Both shared how the coaching strategies, techniques and mindsets we developed together are still making a significant impact in their lives today. ✨Their stories are a powerful reminder of the long lasting benefits…

In a conversation yesterday with a colleague from an organisation undergoing transformational change, I shared a phrase I use when supporting leaders at this critical juncture – something I call 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦. In organisations that are transforming, leaders must balance the demands of maintaining high performance in their current roles while at the same…

Have you ever noticed how small lapses in consistency can have big consequences? This morning, while out on the moors with my Springer Spaniel, something in the bracken caught her attention.She stopped and I carried on. I blew my whistle which is a signal to come to heel immediately. No response. I called again, still nothing..…

I hope you had a rejuvenating summer break. What was the highlight of your summer? For me, it was creating a new model for developing teams. After many iterations and refinements, am chuffed to have reached this point. As we transition back into our professional routines, it’s the perfect time to refocus on our purpose…

As a team coach, I believe innovation is crucial to teams and organisations because it drives growth, fosters adaptability and enables them to stay competitive in a constantly changing world. This article from INSEAD Knowledge resonates. Innovation thrives on well-combined teams rather than individual stars. In a study of over 500 research projects, the most…

The most effective leaders don’t have all the answers; they ask the right questions. Asking powerful questions help to generate new insights, perspectives, build stronger connections with your team and fosters a coaching mindset. Here are some impactful questions to consider: 🤔To understand your team’s perspective:What challenges are you facing right now and how can…

🔥𝐘𝐨𝐮’𝐫𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐲 𝐩𝐮𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐬 – 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟 ? As leaders, we navigate complex landscapes, juggle responsibilities, meet tight deadlines, grapple with unrealistic expectations and unforeseen challenges. And that’s just at work, never mind home! Amidst this whirlwind, our own well-being often takes a backseat. Practicing self-care…

This recent HBR study reveals that women often see power as the freedom to make choices, while men typically associate it with control. This difference matters because many programs focus on teaching women traditional leadership skills, which can unintentionally pressure them to conform to outdated norms. This often leaves women, especially those in senior roles,…

2 joyful things happed today 🌞 The sun has finally arrived in Yorkshire, yah 🏡 The tall scaffolding from the house below ours has been removed. It had completely changed the vista and perspective from our house, acting as a barrier to what lies beyond. I was reminded as they started to dismantle it this…