We’ve talked about this before: Only hire an executive coach if you’re sure that’s what you need. Deep industry expertise, ability to expand your network, make referrals, and guide through experience, are great reasons to hire an executive coach.
When to choose something else
If you’re already a professional badass, running a business or operating in a high functioning role, you may need a different kind of support than an executive coach. You may need to take a step back.
Maybe you’re seeking clarity in the future of your role in the business, and that prompts the question, are you sure this is what you want to be doing? What is next for you? Is there room for you to pursue more personal passions and keep this going? If those are the questions you’re pondering, a vision coach may be a better option than an executive coach.
Cons of choosing a popular, big name coach
You likely won’t get access to them one on one unless you shell out the big bucks. Most of these top coaches will have support teams that run their business like a well oiled machine. If you’re seeking personalized guidance, there are other options.
They’re expensive because you’re paying not just for their experience and formula, but their brand and recognizable name.
It’s typically a bit one-sized fits all. If you want personalization and forward-thinking new ideas, getting matched to a coach from a database using 1 person’s system that’s likely decades old, might not get you that.
It’s up to you to integrate it. If you’re hiring a coach to eventually overhaul a business plan or company culture, you’re going to need to make sure you have a plan to weave it back into the business with stakeholders in mind.
If you’re sure an executive coach is right for you, check out this list.
10 Popular executive coaches specializing in leadership, business and development:
Marshall Goldsmith is a well-known executive coach who is an expert in leadership development and executive performance. He is the author of several books on leadership and has worked with numerous Fortune 500 CEOs and other top executives. His system works over a 6 month period, and matches your company with one of 4,000 coaches in their network.
Bill George is a former Professor of Management Practice at Harvard Business School and ex-Chairman and CEO of the medical device giant Medtronic. He has worked with executives at companies such as Medtronic, Goldman Sachs, and Procter & Gamble. He also uses “true north” to brand his series of books. He’s known for his work in leadership development, authentic leadership, and corporate governance.
Peter Drucker is often referred to as the "father of modern management" and was a renowned management consultant, author, and professor who died in 2005. He was an expert in leadership, business strategy, and organizational development, and his work has had a significant influence on the field of executive coaching.
Dave Ulrich is a well-known management consultant, author, and professor who works in leadership development, organizational design, and human resources management. He has worked with numerous Fortune 500 companies and is considered one of the leading experts in the field.
Michael Watkins is a speaker and the author of several books on leadership development, including "The First 90 Days: Critical Success Strategies for New Leaders at All Levels." He is known for his expertise in helping executives transition into new roles and navigate organizational change.
Ed Batista is a leadership coach and consultant who writes about executive development, communication, and decision-making. He has worked with executives at companies such as Google, Microsoft, and eBay, and is known for his ability to help leaders achieve their full potential.
Karen Kang is a leadership coach and consultant who is known for her expertise in helping leaders build strong teams, manage change, and achieve their goals. She has worked with executives at companies such as Apple, Cisco, and HP, and is the author of “Branding Pays” about the art of building your personal brand.
Bob Prosen is the CEO of the Prosen Center for Business Advancement and is a hands-on mentor in leadership development and business strategy. He has worked with numerous Fortune 500 companies and has helped a lot of (apparently mostly men) increase their quarterly numbers.
Scott Eblin is a leadership coach and author who is an expert in helping executives overcome obstacles and achieve success. He has worked with executives at companies such as Microsoft, AOL, and Intel, and is known for his practical and actionable approach to leadership development.
Barbara Braham is a leadership coach and consultant who is an expert in helping executives build strong relationships, manage conflict, and lead with authenticity. She has worked with executives at companies such as IBM, eBay, and Google, and is known for her ability to help leaders achieve their full potential.
Not sure this list is right for you? Book a 1:1 call with me today.
