Tell me about yourself?
I am an executive leadership coach and consultant specializing in leadership development and team effectiveness. My magic powers are in giving structure to the intangible stuff, blending practical, actionable steps towards progress with the confidence that comes with a conscious inner journey, both with individuals and teams. Before becoming a coach I earned a Masters degree from Stanford University in engineering. I hold the PCC credential from the International Coaching Federation and currently serve as President of the New England chapter. I am a mom and wife and live in Milton, MA.
Tell me about the International Coaching Federation of New England (ICFNE)?
ICFNE is a thriving chapter with over 1000 members. Our main goals are 1) to support our members in being the best coaches they can be and 2) to raise awareness with the public about the coaching profession. We offer educational programs that support our member coaches in honing their skills and obtaining certification. We also provide coaches with ways to network with and learn from each other.
Why did you become a coach?
I became a coach when I realized that working with leaders to be more effective was a viable career option. I was working as an engineer at the time and noticed my own lack of motivation, which was strongly affected by leadership and the environment at work.
Who can benefit from coaching?
Anyone who is willing to look in the mirror and take responsibility for the changes they want. Coaching is like working with a physical trainer for your mindset; we will call you out, cheer you on, and give you some homework exercises, but you are the one doing the heavy lifting.
What is coaching and how does it work?
Coaching is a special kind of conversation where the coach is a partner to the client in supporting the client’s thinking, mindset, actions and overall way of being, such that the client can achieve what they want. Coaches may specialize in various areas such as relationships, leadership, career, teams, spirituality, etc. Across specialties, the process a coach uses to elicit their client’s wisdom and motivation to grow is very similar.
Can coaching transform an organization?
When an organization embraces a “coaching culture,” it can transform. A coaching culture is one in which leaders at every level do more asking and less telling, coming from a place of true curiosity rather than judgment when something seems amiss. A coaching culture is also one in which individuals are willing to develop themselves and share with colleagues the ways in which they are growing as human beings.
Are there any books you recommend?
The Coaching Habit and The Advice Trap, both by Michael Bungay Stanier are excellent primers for adopting a coaching mindset.
Where can readers learn more about ICF New England?
You can learn more about ICF New England on our website at https://www.icfne.org/ and search our Find-a-Coach directory to find the right coach for you!
Liz Myers is a Boston-based executive coach and consultant specializing in leadership development and team effectiveness. Liz earned a Masters degree in engineering from Stanford University and trained to coach with Coach U in 2007 and the NeuroLeadership Institute in 2020. She holds a Professional Certified Coach credential from the International Coach Federation. Liz lives in Milton, MA with her husband and two children.
