Strategically Aligned Coaching

Our work life is a series of journeys – periods of performance that are punctuated by transitions from one purpose to another. Such transitions could be a change in our role and our expectations from it, or a change in our organization and its expectations from us.
High-performers become successful by using their personal capabilities to exceed the expectations of their organizations. With each success comes a new challenge – so called because each transition from the old rules for success to the new ones is fundamentally challenging.

van Bark Consulting helps high-performers manage transitions to new journeys of greater responsibility and influence – to make the journey engaging and productive. The goals of both the individual and the organization determine the actual length and design of coaching programs.

A tailored process may include some or all of these elements:

• Assessments use a combination of testing, interviews, and 360-degree evaluations to provide a baseline of the high-performer’s current strengths and challenges. Participants uncover specific areas of leadership behavior that can be targeted for development in the process.

• Individualized Development Plans help high-performers prepare a path for growth using their combination of strengths and challenges. The crucial element links organizational objectives to personal motivation. Measurable outcomes are identified and time lines are established in this phase.

• Coaching provides a supportive environment when the pressures of day-to-day events push back on efforts to change. During confidential one-on-one meetings and telephone calls, experienced coaches use real-time corporate issues as opportunities for practicing new behaviors and skills.

• Group Learning enhances knowledge and encourages collaboration. It allows teams and business units to develop a common language and addresses particular group challenges that impact individual development. Group Learning is achieved using a variety of modalities such as workshops, business simulations, roundtables, and focus sessions.

• Consulting activities ensure that coaching programs implement the correct approach to support a strategic transition and are aligned with organizational goals. Methods such as executive briefings and feedback help to formalize long-term goals, select appropriate individual and organizational success measures, and review progress.