The Real Impact of the Right Coaching, Mentorship & Guidance

Case Study Testimonial: Written by James (Jamie) Burton | ARB | RIBA | Managing Director | Built Environment Collective

Challenges

As a newly appointed Managing Director the weight of responsibility felt overwhelming. I was completely out of my comfort zone, taking on increased responsibility outside my role as a Chartered Architect. This was compounded by imposter syndrome and with founding shareholders who themselves were learning to deal with someone being an MD of their business. I was struggling to define my role, set boundaries and communicate effectively.

Coaching

Our coaching sessions, often conducted during walks, are immensely beneficial and of course designed by Joe to make me feel comfortable to share in a freer way than sitting opposite each other.

Joe's questioning and attentive listening, prompts deep self-reflection and empowered decision-making, as well as providing tools to deal with scenarios and situations.

Joe's approach begins with a keen understanding of the importance of values alignment.? She helped me unearth my core principles, guiding me to integrate them into my leadership style and decision-making processes.

Central to Joe's coaching is the cultivation of a growth mindset and profound respect for self-awareness and emotional intelligence.

By fostering a safe space for reflection and growth, Joe has equipped me with the tools to manage my emotions, align my actions with my values and lead with confidence and integrity.

One particularly impactful lesson from Joe was inspired by the Captain of the National Men's British Olympic Rowing Team's philosophy: "Will it make the boat go faster?" This simple yet profound question is now my guiding principle, steering me towards actions aligned with our business's overarching goals and vision. It gives me clarity, allows me time to pause and consider my actions from the macro position, rather than the micro position of how I am feeling in the moment. It has been a real revelation for me and improved my relationships with the team, clients and at home!

Joe's coaching centres on practically tangible applications. Through questioning and guidance she provides clarity, focus, positive direction and growth in line with my values and the business vision. This has allowed me to lead the team, develop effective processes and increase meaningful communication. It has also brought the team together, empowering everyone to fulfil their role within the boundaries of our vision, values and aims; not micromanaging or controlling, but by creating supportive, human and trusting relationships to benefit us and the business.

Each coaching session leaves me feeling energized with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to continuous improvement.

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Outcomes

Through thoughtful exercises and candid, honest and reflective conversations, Joe has empowered me to:

• redefine my role
• establish boundaries
• communicate with authenticity and empathy

This has allowed me to untangle my thoughts, issues and complexities and provided me with clarity to move forwards and evolve; growing as a person and also growing the business.

Coaching with Joe is very much a mutual process. It takes work, it’s not a given. Joe guides and asks questions, but you have to put the work in, to use the exercises and insights given, putting the learning into practice.?

When you do you will see real benefits, how it can improve the relationship you have with yourself and with others.? How it can allow your business to flourish and for you to become more productive while supporting yourself too.

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Conclusion

It is fair to say that without Joe’s coaching, guidance and mentorship I would be far behind where I am currently as a leader and the business would be significantly worse off.

The level of understanding Joe continues to provide me with should be taught in schools.? It’s not just appropriate for business, but for life too, helping change your approach, outlook and mindset.

By gaining clarity on all these, you can focus on improvement in line with your values, defining boundaries and using tools to manage them.? By understanding yourself you can live a more fully aligned life and lead a business with far greater success.