5 Unexpected Times to Hire an Executive Coach

When leaders hear the term “executive coaching,” they often picture someone who’s assigned to turn an underperformer around. In reality, the smartest and most successful leaders invest in executive coaching long before there’s a problem. Research shows that more than three-quarters (78%) of senior executives value coaching. It can boost employee engagement and deliver a significant return on investment (ROI). Continue reading to learn more about what executive coaching is and some surprising benefits of investing in a coach.

What Is an Executive Coach?

ICF defines coaching as “partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.”

An executive coach is a common type of coaching practitioner found within workplace settings. While they typically partner with senior leaders within an organization, they also support managers and professionals seeking additional guidance.

Executive coaches may work one-on-one, with a group, or in a combination of both. You’ll find them in traditional corporate environments as well as in higher education and government.

What Does an Executive Coach Do?

Executive coaches help leaders develop greater self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and resilience. They provide space to reflect and explore how you want to show up professionally and personally.

Because change is a constant challenge faced by executives, coaches often support executives in navigating transitions with more confidence and clarity. Ultimately, coaches serve as a confidential sounding board focused entirely on you.

5 Surprising Times to Hire an Executive Coach

 So, when should you consider hiring an executive coach?

While some organizations hire executive coaches only to support struggling employees, proactive leaders reap the benefits of coaching ahead of time.

 1. You’ve started a new role.

Landing a new role is only half the battle. The real test is showing up and delivering.

If you’ve recently landed a new opportunity, you might consider partnering with an executive coach who can help you hit the ground running, ensure you focus on the right priorities, and bring your awareness to any blind spots.

2. You’re navigating difficult team dynamics.

As you grow in your career, less of the work you will focus on technical skills, and more will involve navigating challenging personalities and workplace dynamics.

Whether it’s a founder, peer, board member, investor, or funder, nearly every decision you make at the executive level will involve one or more stakeholders. These relationships can quickly become draining, especially if you don’t have someone in your corner to help you think through your options and strategies.

In my coaching practice, at least 90% of the topics clients bring up are related to personality or team dynamics. New executives are often surprised by just how time-consuming these personality-oriented matters can be.

3. You’re struggling with confidence.

Lack of confidence or imposter syndrome doesn’t go away once you hit the VP or C-suite level. If anything, landing in a senior leadership role can magnify feelings of inadequacy.

When I first started coaching executives, I was surprised by just how many senior leaders seemed like they had it all together on the outside, but still, behind closed doors, felt like children dressed up in adult costumes.

An executive coach who is trained in confidence-building best practices can support you in battling imposter syndrome. They’ll help you truly internalize your wins and build real, lasting confidence as a leader.

4. You feel lonely at the top.

If you feel lonely or isolated at the top, you’re not alone, and your boss may not be the best person to disclose these feelings to. This is where an executive coach can step in.

An executive coach is there to serve you and only you. Unlike a boss, colleague, or mentor, they don’t have any ulterior motives. The focus is totally on you and your best interests.

5. You’re ready for a promotion.

If you’re looking for a promotion, consider partnering with an executive coach to map out and track your progress.

It’s best if you start your work at least six to 12 months before you want to secure that promotion. Your coach will help you get crystal clear on what’s required to secure the opportunity, identify any obstacles in the way, and create a plan to overcome them.

Is Hiring an Executive Coach Worth It?

 Executive coaching isn’t about fixing weaknesses:

• It’s about unlocking your maximum potential as a leader.
• It’s about leading with clarity, confidence, and impact.
• It’s about taking your leadership skills and presence to the next level.

Hiring an executive coach is probably one of the best professional investments you’ll ever make. You’ve got this!