Why Leading the Movement?
Leading the Movement's coaching programme was recommended by Anna's manager, who had previously undergone coaching and found great value in it.
Anna saw potential in the programme and how it might be beneficial for her professional development. Anna was particularly interested in:
- Finding ways to better engage underrepresented groups within the officiating community.
- Building personal leadership confidence.
- Navigating role transitions effectively.
- Learning how to lead and communicate through cultural and organisational change.
"[My coach's] external perspective on scenarios and situations and her ability to suggest ideas that I might not have thought about was amazing. She would ask me questions, leading me into thinking how to create my own solutions. I think the sessions also allowed me to develop my skills in conflict management, which I have found is linked with navigating a changing culture."
Challenges
Anna's role centres around supporting the development of coaches, officials and volunteers across the organisation. Anna works as part of a small team of two and has the support of a student placement officer. Some of the challenges Anna has faced so far include:
- Change management: Volleyball England has been undergoing significant changes in its referee pathway and structure.
- Community engagement: Specifically, there was a need to enhance engagement among female referees through a newly formed group called 'Her Call'.
- Leadership confidence: Personally, Anna was navigating imposter syndrome and a new role shift, while trying to maintain work-life balance.
"Being early on in my career, imposter syndrome can creep up when you're working with people who have a lot more experience."
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Coaching experience
"Coaching is beneficial for everyone. No matter your context, it's tailored to you and the coaching space is judgement-free and supportive."
The highlights of Anna's coaching journey included:
- Skills development when navigating conflict as a result of change in, and around, the organisation.
- Having resources to call upon in applicable situations and across wider networks.
- Developing a personal connection with her coach, providing opportunities to learn in both professional and personal capacities.
Benefits
- Improved self-confidence and a shift towards recognising and using personal strengths.
- Tools and strategies for maintaining work-life balance.
- Support in navigating a significant role change.
- Conflict management skills which are useful in driving cultural change.
- Strategic thinking around inclusive engagement.
- Access to a valuable resources that will be helpful throughout her career.
- Fresh, external perspectives on internal team challenges.
Impacts and reflections
Anna completed the programme with increased confidence and the skills necessary to lead change and engage her community. She believes that the tools and mindset shifts she acquired will benefit her throughout her leadership journey. Anna highly recommends the Leading the Movement programme to both new and experienced leaders.
"The coaching empowered me with the confidence to know I've got the skills to have the impact I want in my role."
Ready to lead with clarity and confidence?
Whether you're navigating systems change, supporting your team, or shaping strategy, our programme offers personalised coaching that's supportive, practical and impactful. Take the first step and self-nominate today to lead in your space with purpose.
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