The most important words any leader can say

David supported me to clarify and integrate my personal values and to also identify and examine limiting beliefs and habits of thought. He customised content and questions, through a timely book, shared article or our direct conversation where David astutely enquired into many things I would have not have stopped to explore myself. Through reviewing some of the latest evidence-based research into leadership development, I refined my future direction and motivation as a leader. This increased personal clarity and vision, supported by regular coaching sessions, has significantly accelerated my professional and personal development this year. It has enabled me to take a new leadership role with more confidence and deliver at a higher level for the team and the wider business. The benefit outside of work has been even more pronounced. Having a knowledgeable and motivated guide, in who’s training and professional experience I can respect, has changed the pace at which I learn and realise the benefits in all parts of life.

My recently completed coaching sessions with David have been a really enjoyable and challenging experience for me. David took the time to get to know me as a person as well as a professional in my role and this ensured we covered a wide range of topics during our times together. Setting my objectives up front ensured we maintained focus. Most of all, I have found this to be a real confidence booster thanks to David's approach and our detailed discussions.

David brings an incredible breadth of knowledge to the table both practical and academic. He is uniquely skilled at asking the key question at precisely the right time. This Socratic process (again backed by experience and academic knowledge) really opened some mental doors that helped me understand my own strengths/weaknesses/aspirations and how they influence my relationships. The unique combination of expertise, caring and kindness made for a really special growth experience for me, the fruits of which have been noted by others.

David, I have found our time together really valuable. I feel very strongly that this has been a good return on investment for the organisation. I really like your style. You are really personable, with a lovely approach. I felt very comfortable with you. You’ve provided me with the opportunity to think through some big challenges and come up with solutions, as well as to make significant progress on my career aspirations.

During 2018 I've been fortunate to work with David as part of a comprehensive senior leadership development program at Enable Networks. David was engaged to deliver 1:1 coaching on my individual development plan which had its foundations in 360 feedback and via a 6-month Emotional Intelligence program. I've found David to be extremely adept at helping me to ascertain the drivers for behaviours (self and others) and is a walking library of ideas, anecdotes, books and other resources to use to help reinforce development concepts.

The greatest benefit is my coach helping me recognize my own authenticity in my leadership and articulating my leadership intent in a way that can be adapted to different leadership settings to include whom I am talking too and where (local, global) I am speaking. Coaching has assisted me in being far more intentional about my engagement both at a strategic and management perspective. I have recognized my strengths to continually showcase and further develop and I have also recognized areas that require improvement. Coaching has allowed me to ask effective questions within a boardroom setting. I have really appreciated David and his way of coaching. His honesty and direct constructive coaching allowed me to be ‘real’ with myself and ‘stop beating about the bush’.