How executive coaching empowers leaders

Executive coaching is a specialised form of support that can empower top-level leaders to manage challenges, navigate the complexities of their roles, enhance their leadership skills and maintain their overall mental health. Karl Gostner , an experienced executive and now an executive coach, shares his insights with us.

Facing a unique set of challenges

Karl identifies several challenges experienced by many executives:

• Prioritising effectively in complex environments.?
• Acknowledging that you hold valuable insights – but not all the answers.
• Overlooking your own mental, emotional and physical well-being in the pursuit of organisational goals.
• The mental demands of numerous meetings and constant engagement with issues, when what truly defines a good executive is the quality of their thinking.
• Balancing the need to provide direction with the necessity of empowering direct reports to solve problems on their own in order to grow.?
• The delicate balance between immediate outcomes and long-term development of people, projects and the organisation itself.?

Qualities of a good executive

Karl believes that a good executive possesses several key traits and qualities.

• Connection to purpose and vision. Effective executives remain connected to their organisation's purpose and vision, which not only helps in communicating effectively but also provides them with a sense of purpose and motivation.
• Personal well-being. They prioritise their physical, mental and emotional health, understanding that their ability to lead effectively is directly linked to their overall well-being.
• Connection to community. Good executives build connections with both their personal and organisational communities, demonstrating care and support for the people around them.
• Dedication to growth. They continuously seek personal growth and are generous in sharing their knowledge and experiences with others, contributing to the growth of individuals and the organisation as a whole.

When should I seek the help of an executive coach?

Karl says he typically sees people seeking executive coaching when they find themselves at a turning point in their lives or careers. They may be grappling with challenges, seeking change or simply feeling the need for something more. Here are a few situations when you may want to consult an executive coach:

• You’re ready for a career pivot, but you need support to take on this new challenge.?
• You’re managing a team for the first time, or a larger team than you’re used to.??
• You’ve recognised some personal behaviour patterns that are limiting the success of your career, your organisation or both, and you’d like to work on them.
• You’re in the job market but you’re not getting any bites.?

What form does executive coaching take?

This will depend on your particular coach and their methods. For example, Karl's approach is rooted in listening and self-discovery. He begins by delving into his clients' life stories, helping them gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their unique leadership styles. This process allows individuals to identify what energises and empowers them, enabling them to become more effective leaders.

His coaching methodology is highly personalised and collaborative. Karl acts as a sounding board, listening to his clients' challenges and facilitating their problem-solving processes. He draws upon his extensive knowledge of strategy and leadership to provide valuable insights and resources, allowing clients to make informed decisions and develop effective solutions tailored to their specific needs. Through self-discovery, collaboration and ongoing support, executive coaching empowers leaders to excel in their roles and lead their organisations to greater success.

About Karl Gostner

An experienced executive – his CV bears titles such as Head of Sales, General Manager, Group Head of Strategy, and Chief Operating Officer (of Primedia) – Karl has been coaching full-time since 2019. Why the transition from C-suite to coach? He recognised that he had always been involved in mentoring and strategy, even during his corporate roles, and felt the desire to extend his coaching expertise beyond a single organisation in order to work with a more diverse group of individuals. Today, he thrives on partnering with clients to enable action that creates richer, happier and more fulfilled lives.

?

Ready to start taking better care of yourself – and, as a result, your business? The Life Health Solutions Executive Wellness offering provides pre-emptive medical care and health services to Africa’s top executives, including access to our world-class Executive Wellness Clinic in Joburg. To find out more, email [email protected] , call (+27) 86 123 4123 to speak to one of our business development managers, or visit our website .