Over the last several months, I have been focused on leadership. As I look back on my leadership journey, I have been lucky to work with coaches who guided me along the way. One key coach was Bob Guenzel, who helped me after I joined the Michigan Economic Development Corporation as a Senior Vice President. The role was a major step up for me, and I needed someone I could talk to who would give me a safe space to reflect on the new challenges I was facing. His support was key as I navigated new challenges such as building a team, creating a vision for my new department, and handling various obstacles.
Thus, for all of the leaders out there, I would like to encourage you to seek out a coach who can support you on your leadership journey.
Leadership isn’t just a title—it’s a mindset, a skillset, and a continuous journey of growth.
Whether you’re stepping into your first leadership role or are a seasoned executive, one truth remains constant: Great leaders are made, not born. And one of the most powerful tools to accelerate that growth is having a coach.
Here are six reasons why coaching can help you develop your own leadership style and improve your leadership skills.
1. Personalized Feedback That Fuels Growth
Unlike generic training programs, a coach provides tailored insights based on your unique strengths, challenges, and goals. They observe your behavior, listen to your concerns, and offer constructive feedback that helps you see blind spots and unlock your potential.
In our work with clients, we have found that no two organizations are the same, and the differences that people face are stunning. Building a relationship with someone who understands you, the organization, and your culture is extremely important and helpful.
2. Accountability That Drives Action
Leadership development requires consistent effort. A coach acts as an accountability partner who keeps you focused, challenges your assumptions, and ensures you follow through on your commitments. This accountability often makes the difference between intention and impact.
It takes time to improve and not slip back into old habits. Working with someone who can help you identify triggers and provide tools and templates for your leadership toolkit is key. Discussing when and how to use these tools can make a big difference and lead to actual behavior change.
3. A Safe Space for Reflection and Experimentation
Leaders often face complex, high-stakes decisions. A coach provides a confidential, judgment-free space to explore ideas, test strategies, and reflect on outcomes. This psychological safety encourages deeper learning and more courageous leadership.
Sometimes you want or need an outside perspective, especially if you are having difficulties with your boss or peers. I also see this a lot in family-owned businesses, where the dynamics have an extra layer of complexity.
4. Enhanced Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence (EQ) is a cornerstone of effective leadership. Coaches help leaders develop self-awareness, empathy, and interpersonal skills — enabling them to build stronger relationships, navigate conflict, and inspire teams.
Navigating the complex issues surrounding emotional intelligence requires intentionality and reflection, especially for those who excel at “getting stuff done” but may unintentionally affect employee morale. Having a coach who can provide a mirror and ask you questions that require thoughtful examination of how you view yourself and your relationships can drive real change.
5. Strategic Thinking and Visioning
A coach helps leaders zoom out from the day-to-day and think strategically. They guide you in clarifying your vision, aligning your actions with long-term goals, and making decisions that reflect your values and priorities.
Many people I work with are great at being reactive; they’re pros at putting out fires. But stepping back from the day-to-day and looking further down the road can be tough. Yes, setting a vision is a key leadership skill, and a coach can create a strategy to help you focus on the long term.
6. Support During Transitions and Challenges
Whether navigating a promotion, leading through change, or managing a crisis, a coach can be a steadying force, helping you stay grounded, focused, and forward-moving. They allow you to adapt quickly and lead with confidence, even in uncertain times.
Your coach is part cheerleader, part sounding board, part voice of reason. They can help give you the tools and resources you need when you need them.
Investing in a coach isn’t a sign of weakness, it’s a commitment to excellence.
The most admired leaders in the world, and some of my most successful clients, from CEOs to entrepreneurs to nonprofit directors, often credit their coaches for helping them grow, evolve, and succeed.
If you’re serious about becoming a leader who inspires, empowers, and drives meaningful change, consider partnering with a coach.
Your future self—and your team—will thank you.
If you're interested in learning more about coaching and our leadership programs and services, please contact Yeo & Yeo HR Advisory Solutions. We're here to support your growth.
