From Stuck to Strong: Executive Leadership Coaching for Women

The Ultimate Guide to Executive Coaching For Women

The need for Executive Leadership Coaching

Executive leadership coaching for women encompasses a tailored approach designed to empower female leaders in navigating their career effectively.

The executive leadership coaching process acknowledges the unique challenges that women face in leadership roles, including workplace biases, lack of representation, and societal expectations.

By providing tailored support, executive leadership coaching serves as a valuable tool for women seeking to enhance their leadership skills, overcome obstacles, and ascend to higher positions within their organizations.

Women often encounter distinct hurdles that can impede their career progression. Coaching provides a structured framework for women in a private, personalised environment, to explore these challenges, develop strategies to manage them, and ultimately flourish as leaders.

This growth-oriented journey is essential for cultivating self-confidence and honing essential skills such as strategic thinking, communication, and decision-making.

Coaching vs. Mentoring: What's the Difference?

Coaching and mentoring are both valuable developmental relationships that can significantly enhance an individual's career, particularly for women in executive leadership roles. However, it is essential to understand the distinctions between these two forms of support to effectively choose the right avenue for personal and professional growth.

1-Coaching

Coaching typically involves a structured approach where a coach works with an individual to develop specific skills, achieve defined goals, or enhance certain competencies. The coach often brings expertise in a specific area, providing targeted strategies and feedback. The relationship is usually time-bound, often lasting a few months to a year, with regular sessions scheduled to ensure accountability. Coaches focus on performance improvement, helping individuals navigate challenges and set actionable plans that lead to measurable outcomes.

2-Mentoring

On the other hand, mentoring is a more informal and long-term relationship, where a mentor guides a mentee based on their own experiences and insights. Mentors often possess a wealth of industry knowledge and can provide valuable life lessons in addition to professional advice.

Unlike coaching, mentoring relationships can continue for several years and are less structured. The primary goal is personal and professional development through holistic guidance, support, and networking opportunities.

Understanding the differences between coaching and mentoring is crucial for individuals, especially women seeking to advance in their careers.

By recognizing the unique benefits of each approach, one can effectively select the right support system that aligns with their specific needs, whether they are looking to improve particular skills rapidly or seeking overall guidance in navigating their career path. This clarity aids in making informed decisions about professional development strategies conducive to achieving success in executive leadership roles.

What Is A Career Transition Coach?

A career transition coach helps leaders navigate changes in their professional lives, whether they're looking to shift industries, change roles, or re-enter the workforce. As such the services of a career transition coach typically include:

1. Assessment: Evaluating skills, strengths, and interests to clarify career goals.
2. Strategy Development: Creating a personalized plan for the transition, including identifying potential job opportunities and industries.
3. Resume and Cover Letter Support: Assisting with crafting effective resumes and cover letters tailored to target roles.
4. Interview Preparation: Providing coaching on interview techniques and practice to enhance confidence and performance.
5. Networking Guidance: Offering strategies for building professional connections and leveraging networks.
6. Skill Development: Identifying and recommending additional training or skills needed for the desired career path.
7. Support and Accountability: Offering ongoing encouragement and accountability throughout the transition process.

Overall, a career transition coach empowers leaders to make informed decisions and effectively navigate their career changes.

What Does a Career Transition Coach Do: 4 Key Outcomes

1-Seeks to Maximise Career Potential

Career Transition Coaching, like executive coaching spoken above above, is also a tailored service that focuses on assisting individuals in maximizing their professional potential through a structured, goal-oriented approach.

A career transition coach serves as a mentor, guiding clients through various pivotal seasons in their careers. One of the primary functions of a career coach is to facilitate career transitions, whether clients are seeking to advance in their current roles, switch industries, or re-enter the workforce.

Women Executive Coaches utilise various tools and techniques to help clients identify their strengths, areas for improvement, and potential career paths aligned with their skills and aspirations.

2-Ensures the Achievement of Goals Aligned to Long-Term Ambition

Setting and achieving professional goals is another integral responsibility of a career transition coach. Coaches work collaboratively with ladies to define clear, actionable objectives that align with their long-term career ambitions.

By breaking down these goals into manageable steps, women executive coaches provide a roadmap that encourages consistent progress. Furthermore, they instill a sense of accountability, prompting clients to remain committed to their action plans while regularly reviewing and adjusting goals as necessary.

3-Engaging in Positive, Stretching Evaluation and Feedback

Feedback is a crucial element of the coaching process. A career transition coach possesses the expertise to evaluate a client’s skills, strengths, and challenges objectively. This feedback can take various forms, including performance reviews, mock interviews, and personal SWOT analyses (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats).

By engaging in positive and regular feedback, women in leadership gain insights into areas that require further development and can strategise on how to enhance their professional competencies.

4-Developing a Toolbox of Strategies, Skills and Confidence

Lastly, a career coach equips clients with strategies for personal and professional development. This includes not only skills training but also soft skills enhancement, such as communication, networking, and leadership abilities.

By focusing on holistic growth, a career transition coach empowers women to navigate their career journeys with confidence and resilience, ultimately leading to greater professional satisfaction and success.

Career Coaching Benefits

In the competitive landscape of professional development, the question of whether career transition coaches provide value has gained increasing attention. Research suggests that investing in a career transition coach can yield significant returns, particularly for women navigating the complex dynamics of executive leadership.

According to a study conducted by the International Coach Federation (ICF), individuals who engage with a coach report boosts in self-confidence, improved communication skills, and heightened job satisfaction, all essential components for success in leadership roles.

Statistics indicate that approximately 70% of leaders who undergo coaching experience improved performance and enhanced workplace well-being. This is especially critical for women, who face unique challenges in the corporate environment.

By working with a skilled women's executive coach, women can gain personalised guidance tailored to their specific challenges and ambitions, leading to greater clarity and direction in their career paths.

Testimonials from clients highlight a common theme: the transformative impact of coaching on both professional and personal development.

For instance, one client shared that after six months of coaching, she successfully transitioned into a higher executive role, attributing her confidence and strategic planning skills to the insights gained during her sessions.

Another found that coaching enhanced her ability to network effectively and build essential relationships within her industry. Such positive outcomes underline the value that a dedicated career transition coach can bring to women aspiring to elevate their careers.

Seven Additional Career Coaching Benefits For Long-Term Career Success

Investing in executive leadership coaching has shown to yield substantial value for women leaders.

Career Coaching equips women in leadership positions with the necessary tools to:

1. Articulate their vision
2. Negotiate effectively, and
3. Build influential networks within their industry.

And, executive coaching encourages ladies in leadership to: 

1. Identify,
2. Recognise and
3. Leverage their strengths
4. While identifying areas for growth.

The idea is that these skills will lead to enhanced overall performance.

The emphasis should be on accountability based on mutual understanding and personal development. 

This allows for a more tailored coaching experience that resonates with the specific aspirations for each lady - after all, we are all unique and therefore need a tailored approach to our specific challenges.

And, by focusing on the unique challenges faced by women leaders, executive coaching not only fosters personal growth but also cultivates a larger cultural shift towards inclusivity in the workplace as well as growth in confidence which is arguably the most important part of the leadership journey.

Recognising and understanding the intricacies of executive coaching is crucial for women aiming to elevate their career trajectories and make significant contributions to their organisations and careers.

Ultimately, the investment in a career transition coach should be viewed through the lens of long-term potential gains rather than immediate costs. The skills, insights, and perspectives gained through coaching can lead not only to immediate job satisfaction but also to sustained career advancement and personal growth. As women continue to break barriers in leadership, the support of a coach can be a pivotal factor in achieving their executive goals.

How Much Should I Expect To Pay For Career Coaching?

When contemplating hiring a career transition coach, it is essential to understand the associated costs, which can vary significantly depending on a multitude of factors as shared within this article.

Typical Pricing In US Dollars

Career coaches typically employ various pricing models, ranging from hourly rates to package deals that encompass multiple sessions.

The quick answer: executive coaches charge about $350 an hour on average, according to SHRM magazine. 

However, SHRM also reports that hourly rates can range from as little as $200 to as much as $3,000.

According to a 2023 study by Practice, the average price for a one-on-one coaching session was $300. This number was skewed toward the higher end due to a few coaches who charged a large hourly rate. If the outliers are removed, the average price drops to $100 per session.

A variety of factors determine your own executive coaching cost. So, your actual cost will vary. We’ll explore these in more detail below

Each coach has their own coaching program, pricing strategy, and coaching fees. Looking at another source, executive coaches can cost anywhere from $13,000 to $30,000 for a six month engagement, per the Conference Board Council’s Executive Coaching Fee Survey. 

Typically there are four different pricing options: 

• Pay as you go with an hourly rate or flat rate for individual sessions. 
• Package or bundle of sessions (usually discounted).
• Membership with an automatic monthly payment like your phone or gym membership. 
• Retainer with a similar setup as a lawyer or consultant. You reserve the right to access someone for a period of time. You get full access for as an example, a twelve month period. You’ll be at the top of the list, with priority for calls, scheduling, and response times.

Be prepared to do your research to assess what coaching style or package aligns best with your needs and budget.  

With an average 1-day public training course costing you anywhere from $750 - $1,500 plus GST, an executive coach who is able to combine coaching skills with leadership learning and courseware is a huge advantage and a much better alternative because your learning is tailored and personal.

Group Coaching vs One-On-One Sessions: which is better?

While individual coaching provides personalised attention, executive group coaching offers unique advantages. It cultivates a community of senior leaders who provide support and accountability. This collective engagement not only strengthens interpersonal skills but also enhances the collective intelligence of the group as members learn from varied perspectives. The interaction among peers fosters a dynamic learning environment that often leads to breakthroughs that might not occur in isolation.

These programs are becoming more sought after within leadership circles due to the connection, opportunities and collaboration that develops through them.

Prices here can vary substantially.  Expect to pay more for group coaching programs.

Geographical Location Counts Too!

With covid at an end, one of the huge benefits its left behind is the wonderful world that has opened up virtually.  You are now able to employ women executive coaches from within a few kms of where you live and work, or you can look more broadly: nationally or internationally.

If you are looking closer to home, try checking with google: "Is there a career coach near me?  You may be surprised at just how many career transition coaches may be in your area.

What To Consider When Choosing Executive Women Coaches?  

Let's dive right in: 

1-A Coach's Experience And Expertise

One critical factor influencing coaching costs is the coach's level of experience and expertise.

Coaches with extensive backgrounds, specialised training, or a proven track record may command higher fees. Moreover, geographical location plays a key role in pricing; for instance, career coaching sessions in metropolitan areas tend to be pricier than those in rural regions, reflecting the differing economic climates and living costs.

2-Duration And Frequency Of Coaching Needed

Another consideration when budgeting for career coaching services is the duration and frequency of sessions. Some individuals may benefit from a few targeted sessions, while others may require an ongoing partnership for sustained growth. It is also important to consider any additional resources that may be offered, such as assessments, personalized development plans, or follow-up sessions, as these can also affect the overall cost.

3- Tools Used

Assessment tools like Myers-Briggs, Strength-Finders, and DISC can be powerful tools; but might come with increased costs. Consider whether the coach you’re researching has a signature program of some kind? A set process they use to work with their clients? This kind of tool or program is certainly not a necessity, but can be a good resource if their program complements your own situation. At the same time, don’t let someone force you into a program if it doesn’t fit what you’re trying to do.

4-Premium Coaching Options 

Premium coaching options tend to be more expensive due to your advanced experience, unique specialisations, and access to extensive tools and resources.

Comprehensive & Customized Programs: These packages may include intensive retreats, 360-degree assessments, unlimited access for a specified period, or tailored programs aligned with an organization’s leadership development framework.

Specialised Expertise: The higher costs reflect your proven track record and the transformative impact of your coaching, providing clients with a comprehensive leadership development experience, including exclusive access to networks, events, and thought leadership not available to standard clients.

Transformative Change: Premium coaching focuses on unlocking leadership potential to drive significant organizational change, enhance performance, and achieve strategic business goals.

Diverse Development Tools: The pricing of premium options reflects a variety of development tools tailored to meet clients’ leadership needs and organizational objectives, helping them make informed investment decisions.

Variable Packages: Coaching costs vary widely. Per-session rates typically range from $150 to $500 or more, while package deals often offer savings for longer commitments. Geographical factors and coaching modalities also affect pricing; urban in-person sessions generally command higher fees than rural or virtual options.

For clients seeking exceptional expertise and comprehensive support, premium sessions exceeding $1,000 can provide specialized services, extensive resources, and personalized guidance for discerning executive needs.

5- Return On Investment

In the context of investing in personal and professional development, women should weigh the potential return on investment that career coaching can provide. A well-chosen coach has the capacity to facilitate substantial growth, effectiveness, and clarity in a client’s career trajectory.

By carefully considering these factors and conducting thorough research, ladies can make an informed decision about how much they should expect to budget for a career coach, thereby maximizing the value derived from this investment.

Four Leaders Share Their Success Stories 

Career and executive coaching have become transformative tools for many women navigating their professional journeys. A growing number of women have shared their personal experiences with coaching, illustrating the various challenges they faced and the pivotal role their coaches played in overcoming these obstacles.

1- Sonja - Successful Sponsorship

Sonja, a driven leader who participated in an executive coaching program highlighted the importance of being sponsored by senior leaders. She emphasised that her coach provided valuable insights on navigating office politics, which helped her communicate effectively with her peers and superiors.

This guidance on interpersonal dynamics allowed her to advocate for her ideas, ultimately resulting in a groundbreaking project that garnered recognition within her organization. Check out a great resource by Sylvia Ann Hewlett on sponsorship here.

2- Grace - Going Global

Grace, a senior leader in global organisation after being promoted to a global leadership role, felt overwhelmed and unprepared for the shift in responsibilities and cultural change she was about to embark upon.

FROM NATIONAL TO GLOBAL

She'd attended a leadership program a few months before and reached out to me to structure a program that would fit in with her upcoming move from Australia to The Netherlands.  During our 3-month structured coaching program, she discovered not only her leadership style and learnt to embrace it, but also strategies to build confidence and effectively manage the new team, responsibilities and senior leadership expectations at a global level.  As she said, her "inside game became as strong if not stronger than her outwardly confident persona due to the work we did.

3- Ingrid - From Injustice To CEO

The coaching experience is not without its trials. A common theme among the ladies I work with is the need to confront deeply ingrained beliefs about their capabilities.

A JEALOUS BOSS

Ingrid, a gutsy, long-term senior leader with global experience and deep smarts in her industry, reached out to me after she'd attended a series of leadership programs I delivered. She'd been managed out of her organisation by a manager who was afraid of her prowess and unable to overcome his fear she'd overshadow him.

PERSONAL BIASES AND SELF-SABOTAGE OVERCOME

During our 1-year executive coaching program, we worked through the hurt and trauma she'd experienced and she moved through the in-depth self-paced learning modules that we'd identified as being crucial to her leadership future.  Together we grappled with her self-doubt, which was hindering her progression and she worked hard to recognise her accomplishments and reframe her self-perception.

This renewed outlook catalyzed her career advancement, enabling her to pursue opportunities that she previously thought unattainable. By the end of our program, she'd received multiple offers and stepped up into a CEO role.

You can read more on how to develop your growth mindset here.

4- Leticia - A Leadership Breadwinner With Limited Career Options

Additionally, many women noted the importance of setting achievable goals during their coaching sessions.

Leticia, a finance specialist and grounded leader reached out to me after a leadership program she'd attended with me and we worked through a tough challenge: due to her senior role in the organisation, she had no where left to go because her manager was the most senior leader and he wasn't about to leave the organisation anytime soon.

A Lack of Opportunities

She'd been looking in the job market for 2 years and hadn't found something she could move into due to corporate downsizing, covid etc. As the breadwinner within the family, she needed to stay where she was, but not lose her passion and purpose. Over a 6-month coaching program, we worked to help her reconnect with her passions and strengths so she could continue to earn a wonderful salary whilst making herself available for "stretch projects" that stimulated her mind and kept her grounded.

Read more about how to increase your influence and impact here. 

GETTING BACK TO BRILLIANT

She also became a mentor to a number of aspiring leaders, bringing them up the leadership pipeline. She got her mo-jo back and hasn't looked back since!

KEY Impacts Of CAREER COACHING 

The narrative emerging from these experiences underscores the profound impact that career and executive coaching can have on women, allowing them not only to develop professionally but also to cultivate a greater sense of empowerment in their personal lives.

These shared stories reflect the valuable experiences of women who have engaged in coaching, showcasing its ability to transform challenges into opportunities for growth and success.

** The names shared above are fictitious to protect the privacy of my clients

Top 12 Female Leadership And Executive Coaches To Consider

In the landscape of executive leadership coaching, numerous female coaches stand out due to their unique experiences, philosophies, and notable achievements. Here is a curated list of twelve female leadership and executive coaches who've made their mark by elevating others:

1. Tara Mohr - Mohr’s work centers on women’s leadership and empowerment. She founded the Playing Big program, which guides women in identifying and pursuing their aspirations while overcoming self-doubt and external barriers.

2. Liz Wiseman - Wiseman’s coaching philosophy revolves around the concept of multipliers—leaders who amplify the intelligence and capabilities of their teams. Her work has significantly influenced executive leadership development.

3. Dr. Linda Hill - A Harvard Business School professor, Hill specializes in leadership and innovation. Her coaching emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion as integral to effective leadership practices.

4. Amy C. Edmondson - A pioneer in the field of team dynamics, Edmondson’s coaching focuses on building psychological safety within teams, which she identifies as essential for high performance.

5. Brené Brown - Renowned for her research on vulnerability and courage, Brown provides coaching that encourages leaders to embrace imperfection and foster connections in the workplace.

6. Kathy Caprino - is a top-ranked career and leadership coach, writer, speaker, and trainer dedicated to the advancement of professional women. Her coaching firm—Kathy Caprino, LLC—offers a wide array of programs, training, assessments, and resources helping professionals reach.

7. Lolly Daskal - As founder and CEO of Lead From Within, Daskal's proprietary leadership program is engineered to be a catalyst for leaders who want to enhance performance and make a meaningful difference in their companies, their lives, and the world

8. Sally Helgesen - A globally recognized author and speaker, Helgesen emphasizes building strong networks and alliances for women aiming to enhance their leadership impact.

9. Renée Mauborgne - Co-author of the best-selling "Blue Ocean Strategy," Mauborgne’s coaching focuses on innovative leadership strategies that foster growth and market creation.

10. Laura O'Shaughnessy - O'Shaughnessy’s approach integrates performance coaching with personal development, focusing on actionable strategies for achieving professional goals.

11. Kim Scott - Author of "Radical Candor," Scott’s coaching is centered on fostering honesty and empathy in leadership, promoting open communication and feedback within organizations.

12. Kerry Anne Cassidy - Known for her innovative approaches to coaching and leadership delivery, Cassidy focuses on behavioral change and leadership transformation. She has been recognised for her excellence in facilitation in Australia and works across multiple continents to bring faith-based leadership to women and organisations through her Unstoppable Women's Leadership Experience.

Each of these coaches offers unique philosophies and strategies designed to uplift and empower women leaders, catering to a variety of personal and professional challenges.

How Do I Find An Executive Leadership Coach?

Finding the right leadership coach is a critical step for women aiming to advance their careers in executive roles. Various avenues can be explored to locate a suitable coach.

1-Leverage Your Networks

Start by leveraging personal networks; reaching out to colleagues or mentors may yield recommendations based on shared experiences. Professional organizations and industry associations can also be beneficial, as they often maintain directories of qualified coaches specializing in leadership development.  And if you are new to networking or keen to improve your skillset around it, you can read more about it in my article here.

2- Go Social

Online platforms, such as LinkedIn or dedicated coaching websites, allow for broader searches and provide insights into coaches' backgrounds, specializations, and client testimonials. Furthermore, consider attending workshops or leadership seminars where you may have the opportunity to meet coaches in person and evaluate their coaching styles firsthand.  

3- Ask Questions

When selecting a leadership coach, it is essential to ask pertinent questions that gauge compatibility and effectiveness.

1. What is the coach’s coaching philosophy and their approach to leadership development?
2. Who do they work with?
3. What does a typical coaching program look like?
4. What methodologies do they use?
5. Can you meet with them to get a feel for their personality and your "fit" as a team - most coaches offer a discovery call upfront to gauge exactly this.

By asking good quality questions, and doing your research, you can better determine if their approach aligns with your personal and professional goals.

Additionally, it is vital to assess the experiences and qualifications of potential coaches. Look for coaches with relevant certifications, such as those from the International Coach Federation (ICF) but also be open to coaches who have deep smarts and experience working alongside leaders as well as backgrounds in leadership roles or related fields.  Although I don't have any formal qualifications in coaching, I have 28+ years of coaching leaders from all walks of life, backgrounds and challenges which has allowed me to deeply connect and discern the root causes and work with a client to resolve these - and you cannot learn this in any classroom that I've ever attended!

Coaches with firsthand experience in navigating workplace challenges can offer invaluable insights and strategies tailored to your specific context.

Ultimately, the coaching relationship should empower you to grow as a leader. A thoughtful selection process can help ensure that your chosen coach is not only well-qualified but also a good fit for your unique leadership journey.

Conclusion: Making The Most Of Your Coaching Journey

As we conclude our exploration of executive leadership coaching for women, it is essential to reflect on the salient points discussed throughout this blog post.

1- Career Progression And Potential Realised

Leadership coaching serves as a vital resource for women aiming to enhance their skills, navigate challenges, and foster career advancement.

2- Finding The Right Coach For Your Particular Season Of Leadership

In an environment where gender equity in leadership roles remains a focal topic, the value of tailored coaching cannot be overstated. With the right coach, women can both develop their leadership style and elevate their presence in their respective fields.

3- The Importance Of Investing In Your Leadership

The costs associated with executive coaching can vary significantly based on factors such as the coach's experience, the coaching format, and the duration of the program. However, when viewed through the lens of potential career benefits, the investment is often justified. Women pursuing leadership positions should weigh these costs against the tangible and intangible returns—such as improved decision-making, enhanced confidence, and expanded professional networks. A well-suited coach not only provides guidance but also encourages accountability, which is crucial for ongoing growth and development.

4- Conduct Research To Find The Right Fit

Finding the right coach is paramount to maximizing the benefits of the coaching experience. This involves assessing qualifications, identifying personal compatibility, and acknowledging specific career objectives.

Additionally, engaging with former clients can offer insights into a coach's effectiveness and approach. Thus, prospective clients are encouraged to conduct thorough research and introspective evaluations as they embark on this transformative journey.

In summary, executive coaching for women is a powerful tool that can facilitate women’s growth in leadership roles. By understanding its costs and values and diligently selecting a coach, women can realise their full potential, ultimately contributing to a more equitable and diverse leadership landscape. And that is a win-win for everyone!

Until next time, I'll

See you at the top!

Kerry Anne