Leadership

Dealing with challenging individuals in a busy professional environment

As a leader I’ve never had a problem with the task side of my job - defining the vision, building in clear achievable objectives and finding meaningful ways to measure them. I’m good at laying down a plan, using it to steer work and re planning if necessary. I can spot deviations and move swiftly to avoid things going off track and becoming a problem. I consider myself a good team builder and pretty good with people although sometimes my direct style of communication can be misinterpreted so I’ve worked on it and everyone I work with considers me professional and approachable.

I’d attended an in house leadership programme run by Sharpstone Skinner which had given me a great framework for leadership – creating the right mind set, the key skills and processes needed for effective leaders. I liked their style, approachable, experienced and knowledgeable, they’ve been there and done it which makes a big difference. So why would I want the services of Sharpstone Skinner again except to further develop my skills and keep my leadership abilities sharp? When I came across a staff member who pushed me to my limits.

Communication with this individual completely fell apart and I could not see a way through. Several coaching sessions with Sharpstone Skinner helped me download my frustration, talk through how I saw it and try to make sense of it. It wasn’t a therapy session though, it was a conversation with a purpose. There was respect, understanding and empathy coupled with challenging questions, re framing of my thoughts and a refusal to allow me to give up! The objectivity and emotional detachment was also hugely valuable. Most of all Sharpstone Skinner don’t judge you, I could speak freely even if I knew sometimes I was being irrational.

I got my desired outcome. I was able to conduct myself professionally and clearly throughout the difficult journey of bringing the relationship back on track. Sharpstone Skinner gave me the opportunity to examine my strengths and build on them as well as supporting me with some areas I found very stretching. I believe I’m a better leader as a result of the experience. Leadership is tough sometimes and having Sharpstone Skinner there as a backup and sounding board has been invaluable.

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