Introduction

Coaching can be described as performance-centred learning and development that reaches to the heart of individual success.

It provides a flexible, confidential and safe environment for the individual in which to explore and resolve professional and personal issues that can have an impact on work performance.

At Bluestone, we work with senior managers and those entering senior management to help them to focus on those changes that will make the most difference to their performances. 

Our individually tailored programmes can provide:

• Opportunities to review and assess personal style, behaviours and impact, and to develop new approaches.

• Time and space to explore current issues safely and intensively with someone with no vested interest in the outcomes.

• A means towards improving work-life balance through reviewing and adjusting the use of personal time and other resources.

• A safe place to think aloud and to vent any anger and frustration.

• Personalised intensive learning.

We are able to provide a range of psychometric tools − such as Myers Briggs and 360° feedback − to support our coaching.

We also provide coaching-skills programmes for managers who wish to develop their own coaching skills.

Here’s what just a few of our clients have said about their coaching experiences:

“The issues we have covered have been wide-ranging; for example, personal development, management style and relationship management; reviewing the structure and development of my team and, latterly, discussing my future options in the light of the merger. As a result of this I have developed a different perspective……a new view of myself, which has helped me to develop new approaches and formulate practical actions.”
– Director of Services in the Public Sector

 
“As a result of those coaching sessions my confidence and self belief in my ability to undertake the internal consultancy role and facilitate OD activities has greatly increased.  When I recently applied for a job I used one of my sessions to discuss my application and the content of a presentation I was required to give.  On that occasion, we identified my strengths, abilities and motivation which enabled me to feel much more positive and confident going in to the interview.”
– Training & Development Manager

 “I was offered coaching support to help make the transition back into a senior role.
The strength of the experience came from being asked a lot of pertinent questions but letting me come to my own conclusions and in being constructively challenged about negative beliefs.  The independent nature of the coaching relationship provided an opportunity to reflect in confidence upon my career to date and identify patterns of behaviour which result in both good and less than optimal performance. This led to the identification of goals to be met to help ensure I meet my potential and be less self-effacing.”
– Professional Services Manager

"Sheila helped me sort out what my options were, what I felt about each of them and therefore what action to take. She also helped me see and deal with my emotional reaction to what was happening to me. This allowed me to take what control I could of the situation. I still come back to some of her questions and advice – and think I will continue to do that."
– Assistant Director, Operational Services

"She provided exactly the right kind of coaching for the stage I was at when I contacted her. She managed somehow to identify the important issues, explored with me how I could deal with them and gave me ideas about alternative approaches. I appreciated the thoughtful way she approached the task and the fact that she was clearly helping me rather than imposing her views. Although it wasn’t easy to face the issues she raised, she made it manageable – and enjoyable!"
– Director of Planning, Civil Service

Other work we do includes
consultancy and learning and development.