Free Seminars
I Understand Programmers Because I Was One
For more years than I care to count I was a software engineer. My last job before becoming a coach was designing enterprise-scale Java applications. That means that I understand the answers to your questions, where other coaches may not even understand the questions. Think about it, how would you explain to a non-programmer:
- why the product managers drive you crazy by adding "just one more little feature,"
- why you'd really like to try out extreme programming on the next project,
- why you really need to get onto a Java project for you resume's sake.
I understand these issues and can help you start resolving them because I've lived through them myself, and I understand how most software organizations work in good times and in bad times. I've listed my resumes, but you need to know what makes me a good coach, so I've also listed the attributes that I find important, and included a little bit about my coaching style.
Resumes
- Here's my technical resume . See, I really was a programmer.
- And here's my coaching resume. I worked hard for this and I'm proud of it.
Professional
I'm not a New Age coach who promises life transforming experiences on demand, because professional coaching is anything but mystical. Instead, I use proven techniques from coach training and psychology to help you focus on your goals or overcome specific issues. My coaching style may not be dramatic, but it works reliably.
Patient
You may need to go over an issue time after time after time until you're sick of it. I'll be as interested and engaged on the hundredth time as I am on the first, and I'll never try to hurry you along unless you've asked me to.
Persistent
Some issues will require dogged determination, and staying on a task for a long time. I can provide the persistence, and help keep you focused on your goal.
Curious
Coaching is a fascinating business - there's always something new to learn. I'll use my natural curiosity to help uncover aspects of the issue that neither of us had discovered.
Reliable
Our coaching relationship is a real priority to me, and I'll be faithful about meeting with you, and always fully engaged in the session.
Objective
A coach has a natural advantage of being able to take a step back to look at your issue dispassionately, so I'll be able to see ways around your problem that you might miss because you're in the middle of it.
Trained
My formal training is through Mentor Coach, one of the best and most respected training organizations in the industry. I belong to the International Coach Federation, and subscribe to its guidelines on practices and ethics. And I'm learning all the time, from courses, colleagues, and clients.