Transformative Coaching Circles for Leadership Growth at a City Council. Building Capability, Confidence, and Practical Leadership Strategies.
The Brief
A city council aimed to uplift the leadership capabilities of frontline leaders who managed key community services, including Family & Children Services, Community Development, and Aged and Disability Services.
Many participants had little or no prior leadership training but carried significant responsibilities in managing operational staff and service delivery. Future Leadership was engaged to deliver a tailored coaching program that aligned with the council’s capability framework while accommodating service delivery demands.
Improvement in Performance
Studies show that executives who receive coaching report a 70% improvement in work performance, according to the International Coaching Federation (ICF).
Increase in Employee Retention Rates
Companies that offer coaching and transition programs during restructuring or layoffs see a 60% increase in employee retention rates, as reported by the Human Capital Institute (HCI).
Faster Reemployment
Outplacement services and career transition coaching can reduce the time it takes for displaced employees to find new jobs by 50%, according to a study by RiseSmart.
Higher Return on Investment (ROI)
The ICF reports that companies receive an average return of A$11.85 for every dollar invested in executive coaching.
The Process
Future Leadership designed and implemented a coaching program tailored to the council’s leadership needs:
- Participants completed the Learning Mindset Indicator (LMI) assessment to evaluate their growth mindset.
- The program focused on four core areas: leading self, leading others, leading organisationally, and managing stakeholders.
- Smaller coaching circles were established to create a collaborative and engaging learning environment.
- Accountability partners were assigned to ensure reflection, accountability, and application of learning.
- The program culminated in a celebration event where participants showcased their leadership growth and impact.
Future Leadership's Average Participant Indices Across Coaching & Transition Clients
43% Increase in Self Awareness
Individuals’ awareness of motives, values, strengths and development needs
27% Increase in Motivation
Individuals’ motivation to apply learning, insight and further develop
29% Increase in Confidence
Individuals’ confidence in their abilities and impact as a leader
32% Increase in Role Clarity
Individuals’ clarity around success factors associated with their role
The Outcome
Participants reported increased leadership confidence, enhanced skills, and tangible operational improvements.
The program was exceptionally successful. Participants found the content relevant and beneficial. All enjoyed the sessions, learning new approaches and strategies whilst getting to know others from across the council. The CEO and other Directors attended the celebration session at the completion of the program and were impressed by the presentations of those who shared their learnings and the impact the program has had on them. Each participant built their leadership confidence and could demonstrate where the program had been beneficial in a practical tangible manner. Given the success, we were asked to run another program in 2024.
