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Leadership Coaching in a Global Setting
Over the past 2 years, I have coached more than fifty leaders in twenty countries: ten countries in Africa, seven countries in Europe, and three in Southeast Asia. Most of the people I coach are social entrepreneurs managing their own startups. The products of these entrepreneurs encompass a wide range. There is an organization in India that is accelerating the usage of renewable energy while replacing kerosene lamps and diesel generators, another nonprofit in East Africa is building affordable childcare centers. The leaders of these organizations are mission driven, passionate, open-minded and curious to explore their leadership challenges.
I have been in the coaching business for over 30 years. I started my career as a Human Resources professional working at various high-tech organizations in Silicon Valley and later established my own firm as a full-time executive coach. In 2013, my family and I transferred to Italy, and I have since developed a growing online global coaching practice.
Working with a variety of global leaders has given me an opportunity to reflect on some of the differences and similarities in coaching international leaders versus those in the U. S.
The most important difference in international coaching is of course the culture of the countries in which the leaders work. I have found it is important to have at least a cursory knowledge of each country’s background. I am curious about the country’s recent history, current geo-political situation, and demographics. I research their local customs in regard to food, music, dance, and the role religion plays in their environment. Understanding the life style of the country helps me understand the context in which the leader operates.
On the initial call, I ask the client to describe their country in respect to other countries in their region. Next, I ask about their company culture. How would they describe their work force? What are the biggest challenges in establishing their startups in the countries where they are located. In these times of COVID, I ask how the pandemic has impacted their business, families and employees.
Once I have a basic understanding of the clients’ environments, I find it is important that I view the culture and context from their perspective not mine. For…
