One word, with so many different meanings and nuances! What does it mean to you? How has your own perspective of leadership evolved over the years? How does leader development differ from leadership development? How are you building the collective leadership capacity of your organisation? If you are a leader, a coach who works with…
Author: verawoodhead
8 reasons why your organisation needs an internal coaching function
An Internal Coaching function is a strategic investment that can yield substantial benefits for your organisation. Following my post on ‘How to build an internal coaching function’, last week, I was asked if there is a place for internal coaching and does it work! Having worked both as an external and internal coach, I have…
7 tips to building an internal coaching function
“I’m now qualified, and want to coach people within my organisation, what advice would you give?” My week started with this conversation with a connection who wanted to ‘pick my brains’ on the topic. Whether coaching is carried out in addition to the day job or as a full-time role, for internal coaching to be…
Holding a safe space
What does ‘holding a safe space’ mean? I was asked this question by someone new to coaching. It is the space that we hold for our coachees which enables them to feel safe to open up, to be vulnerable and be their authentic selves. A space where feelings, emotions and thoughts can expressed without the fear…
Experience alone will only get you so far
‘What can you do?’ asked Mr Smith (not his real name!) in a somewhat riled manner. His dull blue eyes stared across the table. I was in the early days of my consulting practice and at a business networking meeting explaining what I do, how I work, add value, outcomes… ‘ I’ve been running my business for…
9 reasons to engage in group discussions and 10 ways to generate good ones
When asked to form discussion groups in a workshop, on a training day or at an event ….do you do so grudgingly or with an energy and enthusiasm? Discussions come in many guises and can be: Informal or formal Structured or unstructured Open to those with an interest e.g Twitter chats #ldinsights on a Fri…
C is for Coaching
Coaching is a highly personalised way of learning as it focuses on your specific individual needs and context. Working one to one with a coach in a confidential and non judgemental space, it harnesses your own resources, skills and creativity to help you create new ways of thinking, doing and feeling to move you forward.…
B is for Blogs Blogging
Whatever your interest and passions are, you are likely to find a blog on the topic. Since the early 2000s, there has been an exponential rise of blogs which are now well established within the online space. Why read? Blogs from respected authors, industry experts, people are passionate about their field can: Provide insights and…
A is for Action Learning
A recent conversation about how learning has changed over the decades has prompted this series and challenged me to come up with 26 ways to learn #AtoZofLearning. Digital content, tools and technology is transforming how learning is designed and delivered. Accessing learning any time, anywhere, any device, individually or collectively has given choice, flexibility and…
Walk in her shoes, Coaching walks
A few days ago, this picture of Celine caught my eye. Instead of going to school, 4 year old Celine walks miles every day to collect water. No school means no education – no opportunity to learn to read, write, have a better future. It resonated. Born in a developing country, I know what it…