The first interview in our “Inspired Career Series“ is with Executive Coach- Rosemary Moore. Richard Griffiths met with Rosemary to find out how she got in to coaching and to learn a little more about the benefits coaching can offer.
Interview with Executive Coach – Rosemary Moore
RG: How did you get in to coaching?
RM: I have worked in HR since graduating from University and gradually become more interested in coaching to enable individuals, teams and in turn organisations. From experience as an HR Business Partner, as a manager and a direct report (!) I know that using coaching tends to get better results over a sustained period than continuously being directive. We all need to transition and I find coaching a powerful way to do that more quickly.
RG: What are the typical situations that clients require you to coach them over?
RM: Change is a big theme in coaching, potential clients usually get in touch because they are contemplating making a change and want some support in both their thinking and being held accountable as they transition.
RG: What is the profile of your typical client?
RM: I am not sure I have a typical client! It varies from a senior business leader to a new manager. A member of the HR function to someone looking for support with their work-life balance.
RG: How often do you meet clients?
RM: It can vary dependent on the goals the client is working towards. However, I usually meet clients once a month for between 1.5 and 2hrs. Most coaching takes place face to face but I do have some clients based outside the UK and we use skype.
RG: What coaching studies and qualifications have you undertaken?
RM: I hold a Postgraduate Diploma in Business & Personal Coaching from the University of Chester and am a member of the International Coach Federation (ICF). I also attend CPD days to build on my knowledge, I attended a great one on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy recently run by Barefoot.
RG: What do you enjoy about coaching most?
RM: It will sound cheesy but being able to support individuals to move closer to realising their goals.
RG: What are the challenges?
RM: On some occasions when a client has been struggling with a topic and we have tried a few different exercises, it can be tempting to be very directive. The good thing is that I am aware of that; and whilst I usually avoid it, with some clients I will ask “Can I suggest something?”. This usually then presents an opportunity for further discussion and often debate!
RG: And misconceptions about coaching?
RM: I am aware that some people view coaching as a bit “fluffy” however I would suggest that before you judge it, you give it a try and see how you experience it.
You can connect with Rosemary on LinkedIn.