For me coaching is about providing a supportive space in which the client can think out loud hearing internal thoughts become externalised. It’s a chance for them to feel the resonance of these ideas at play – to see what sits comfortably, supports, enlivens, limits or challenges. My role is to listen, to hear the client, sometimes to encourage them to deepen their enquiry or to see from alternative vantage points. Through this, they expand their appreciation of their current situation and options open to them. I support them to set intentions and actions. I am then a touch stone for them as they move forward with these actions. It is always a privilege and a joy to walk alongside them for this stage of their life journey.
My coaching approach is informed by John Whitmore’s GROW model: Goals, Reality, Options, Will/Way Forward.
I have been an active member of Northumbria University’s Internal Coaching Network for many years following completion of an ILM Level 5 Coaching qualification. This rewarding work has seen me providing business coaching for academics, administrators, and technicians from many of Northumbria University’s Faculties and Services. Being a coach involves participating in regular supervision and training sessions. It requires one to hone and maintain embodied skills such as active listening, building rapport, communicating empathy, self-awareness and emotional intelligence.
Feedback from coaching clients:
“Coaching with Liz left me much clearer about the value that my work brings for myself and for others. I’ve been able to take those insights away to make a distinct shift in my priorities and my approach to working with others. I feel some of my recent professional successes have come from this shift.” TF
“Liz has been a great coach. She is an excellent listener and holds the space beautifully without judgement. She really ‘leaned in’ to connect with me and made the experience very easy. Liz asked good poignant questions at the right times, giving me space and time to answer and explore.” AB
“The coaching experience was extremely positive and I’m grateful for the thoughtful and considered approach that was taken during our meetings. The experience was authentic and sincere, and I appreciate the time that the coach took to guide me through my thought processes.” VP
“Coaching with Liz has been invaluable to me. Liz enables me to take my random thoughts and direct them towards an achievable aim. Through sensitive questioning I am helped to navigate through my negative self-doubt to find a positive, motivated path forward.” JHH
“I felt Liz was warm and responsive to my coaching needs. I felt very supported.” CD
“Liz has provided a non-judgemental space to process information as well as being a voice that brings it back to how I can move forward.” EB
Liz Pavey 