116 50 TOPEXECUTIVECOACHES
My clients generally fall into three categories: CEOs and senior manage-
ment who see that their current style of leadership is keeping them from
moving their teams and organizations to the next level. For example, they
find themselves unable to mobilize their people or to build trust or speak in a
way that motivates others. Although historically successful, they feel stuck at
a certain level of leadership.
Second, I work with emerging leaders who are on a strong upward trajec-
tory and are in a succession plan in their organizations. With these individu-
als, I build a strong foundation of leadership skills that helps them serve
those they lead, and their organizations.
Third, I often work with the immediate teams of the individuals I have
coached. This builds a culture of action in which team coordination, dignity,
respect, and communication are enhanced.
Regardless of what category—CEO/senior management, emerging leader,
or team—it is critical that the design of the program and the goals be de-
cided through a mutual process. Through interviews, I find out what is miss-
ing or what breakdown they are facing. We enter into a conversation about
their purpose and what they deeply care about. I then assess whether I can
be of help. If it is in my domain of expertise, we mutually arrive at condi-
tions of satisfaction for the work. I promise a set of outcomes, and they com-
mit to a set of practices. Throughout the course of our work together, we
routinely review our progress.
Through my 40 years in the martial arts (primarily aikido), my research in
learning and performance as a psychologist, and as a track and field athlete
who competed at the international level, it has become abundantly clear to
me that mind /body/spirit practices are fundamental to a successful coaching
practice. Furthermore, my coaching is based on a close, trusting relationship
in which honesty, forthrightness, and courage are required. The following
qualities and skills are among those my clients consistently report they have
gained through our work:
•Centered presence of integrity and authenticity
•The capacity to listen with empathy to the concerns of others
•The ability to generate life-affirming moods
•The capacity to quickly build trust
•The capability to coordinate effectively with others
•The gift to authentically motivate others
•The strength to stay emotionally balanced in times of adversity and
change
•The wisdom to know when it is time to act and when it is time to wait
•The strength to be a lifelong learner