One good conversation can change everything.

As humans we long to connect. And yet so many people feel like they are not really seen, heard or truly known. Somewhere along the way we’ve picked up some unhelpful habits with conversations.

We text instead of talking. We skim the surface rather than really listening. We speak while distracted by phones, to-do lists or the general busyness of life.

In my coaching work I’m often reminded how powerful it is when someone finally feels properly heard and listens with genuine curiosity. Without interrupting. Without rushing to solve the problem.

Something shifts. Perspective changes. Connection deepens.

A good conversation really can do that. Sometimes it can be life changing.

I hope you have at least one conversation that matters this week.

Some musings about presence

Presence is an interesting quality.

We've all met people who seem to have it. They're not necessarily the most senior, confident or outspoken person in the room, yet people pay attention when they speak.

Over the years, I've become increasingly interested in what creates that effect.

One thing I've noticed about myself is that when I'm engaged and enthusiastic, I can sometimes contribute a little too much in a group discussion. It's something I've worked on over the years. Not because I don't have something to add, but because making space for others often leads to a better conversation.

Perhaps that's part of presence. Trusting yourself enough that you don't need to fill every silence or contribute to every discussion.

Sometimes saying less has more impact.

What do you think gives someone real presence?

If you’re interested in coaching or workshops for yourself or your team, feel free to get in touch attess@nextcoaching.com.au

#professionalcoaching #careermanagement #futureofwork #leadershipdevelopment #findingyourwhy#careertransition #facilitation

A small professional milestone this week.

I recently renewed my PCC (Professional Certified Coach) accreditation with the International Coaching Federation and, as part of the process, was selected for an audit.

It was a little nerve-wracking.

Even after years of coaching, there is something about having your records and professional development reviewed that makes you pause and wonder whether you've missed something.

What I was most grateful for was the reminder that ongoing learning has never felt like a chore to me – not in this career anyway. Actually, the bigger challenge is often resisting the temptation to sign up for every course, workshop, webinar or conference that catches my attention.

One of the things I love most about coaching is that there is always more to learn. New perspectives and research. New ways of thinking about people, leadership, careers and change.

The audit reinforced something I often encourage clients to do. Consistent small investments over time make a difference. What feels like a webinar here, a workshop there, a book, a conference, a conversation, eventually adds up.

I'm pleased to have renewed my PCC and grateful to all the clients, colleagues and fellow coaches who continue to challenge and inspire my learning.

This is what my “network” looks like

I was looking at this photo from my birthday get together with Ness and Ingrid a few months ago.

We originally met at work and started as colleagues and then, over time, Vanessa Venning and Ingrid van der Aa became my friends.

Now we catch up, celebrate, support and occasionally challenge each other!

It’s a good reminder for me, and for my clients, that the best “networking” doesn’t feel like networking at all. It’s built over time, through real conversations and a genuine care for each other.

That’s the network that lasts.

Sometimes, the stories we tell ourselves are the problem.

The power of personal brand

It was a pleasure to be interviewed for SAM Extra from the University of Sydney Alumni community on the topic of personal brand. You can check the article here https://lnkd.in/grimSgs3

Personal brand can sound a bit cringe and self-promoting. But it’s really about understanding who you are, how you impact people and what you want to be known for. Done well, it can multiply opportunities, deepen relationships and completely change the trajectory of your career.

The conversations we avoid.

One of the things I’ve noticed over the years, both in organisations and in my coaching work, is how often the conversation that most needs to happen… doesn’t.

A leader who needs to give honest feedback but worries about upsetting someone.

A colleague who feels frustrated but keeps quiet.

A team that politely skirts around an issue that everyone can see.

Avoiding the conversation can feel easier in the moment but over time the cost is usually much higher. What I see is trust diminishing, frustration building and misunderstandings growing.

And what might have been a straightforward conversation becomes something much bigger.

In my experience, most people don’t avoid these conversations because they don’t care - they avoid them because they care a great deal and don’t want to get it wrong.

But often the most respectful thing we can do for each other is to be willing to have the conversation. Carefully, thoughtfully, honestly and often courageously.

Those are usually the conversations that move things forward.

I see this show up more than we think - in life and at work.

The bigger issue is when is alignment worth it, and when is it costing you?

Not every decision needs consensus, some need clarity.