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Building Confidence and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome Through Coaching

Client Background and Initial Challenges

At the end of their six-month probation period, the client, a professional involved in government engagement, identified key areas for improvement in their role. While they felt competent in policy analysis and writing, they lacked experience and confidence in stakeholder engagement.


Recognising these challenges, the client's manager suggested finding a mentor. But the more they discussed it, they realised that what the client needed was an opportunity to learn more about their own thoughts and behaviours that prevented them from being able to feel more confident, and work with their own knowledge on how to engage and interact with new and often senior audiences.  


Before Coaching: Navigating Anxiety and Imposter Syndrome

Before starting coaching, the client expressed enthusiasm but also acknowledged their introverted nature and anxiety. They described their mindset as fraught with self-doubt, making it difficult to engage fully in professional settings.


The client also struggled with situations that required interacting with new people or large groups, describing these experiences as energy-draining and challenging.


The client wanted to feel supported and encouraged in their journey, emphasising the need for open communication and understanding from their coach. They were looking for a space where they wouldn't feel condescended to or dismissed, and where they could work on their confidence at their own pace, whilst also being gently challenged to evolve their potential.


The Coaching Approach

Throughout the coaching sessions, the focus was on building the client's confidence in stakeholder engagement and helping them manage their anxiety in high-stakes settings. The coaching provided a supportive environment where the client could explore their strengths, practice new skills, and reflect on their experiences without judgment.


Techniques included role-playing scenarios to simulate stakeholder interactions, discussing strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome, and setting small, achievable goals to build confidence incrementally. Emphasis was also placed on self-reflection and articulating needs in both professional and personal contexts.


After Coaching: Growing Confidence and Assertiveness

After completing the coaching program, the client reported significant progress in their confidence levels, particularly in stakeholder engagement. They reported feeling more assured in their abilities and less overwhelmed by the prospect of speaking up in meetings.


"I am feeling more confident in myself and my ability. I definitely feel more confident in myself compared to where I started from," they noted. A recent experience highlighted this shift when the client successfully voiced their perspective in a senior meeting without second-guessing or apologising unnecessarily.


The client also found themselves more capable of advocating for their needs with their executive board, illustrating growth in their assertiveness and self-advocacy skills.


This candid communication was well received and marked a clear improvement in how they manage their professional relationships.


Conclusion

Through coaching, the client has made significant strides in their professional confidence and self-advocacy. They are now better equipped to handle stakeholder engagement and have developed a more assertive approach to their role.

Executive Coaching with The Leadership Coaches

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