Karen Benz: Navigating Change and Empowering Leaders with 1:1 Coaching (Encore) | Ep #114

Dedicated and high-performing Executive Coach and former Vice President of Coaching at New Level Work, Karen Benz, explores the nuances of coaching in leadership. Learn the importance of understanding what coaching is and isn't, the concept of directed coaching, and the significance of building a strong coaching community. This conversation with host Wendy Hanson highlights the transformative 'Aha' moments experienced by managers during coaching sessions, the differences between internal and external coaching, and the power of perspective in facilitating growth. The importance of feedback and the value of coaching in today's workplace is emphasized, especially in navigating challenges brought on by recent global events.

Key takeaways:

• Coaching is about building individual leadership skills through goal setting.
• Directed coaching combines traditional coaching with the coach's expertise.
• A strong coaching community enhances the experience for both coaches and clients.
• Aha moments in coaching can lead to significant personal and professional growth.
• External coaches can provide a fresh perspective free from organizational politics.
• Perspective shifts can help clients see situations differently and improve their management style.
• Feedback is essential for growth and improvement in coaching.
• Coaching is an investment in personal and professional development, not a remedial action.
• Clients must be motivated to engage fully in the coaching process.
• The relationship between coach and client is crucial for effective coaching.

Meet Karen:

Karen Benz is an experienced Executive Coach (and former VP of Coaching at NLW) with an extensive background in leadership and management. She holds a B.S. (Bryant University) and M.S. in Management (Salve Regina University). Her experience spans most industries including technology, finance, health care, defense, manufacturing, service, nonprofit, government, and education.

Karen has a certification in DISC and has taught business courses at the university level for over 10 years. She also has experience as the Chief Operating Officer of an ambulatory health care facility located in Rhode Island. Karen is a certified graduate of Corporate Coach University. She is the VP of Coaching at New Level Work and is based in Rhode Island.

Karen's Links:

• Your LinkedIn URL: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenbenz/

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