Case Study /
Director-Level Ad Executive Finds a New, Collaborative Leadership Style
The
challenge
A newly promoted director-level executive at a top-tier agency struggled with using a dictatorial, pace-setting leadership style while managing his direct reports. His sole focus on the end product did not foster a collaborative environment. Not only was he not getting the best out of his team, but his approach also did not fit the organization’s culture.
OUR APPROACH
During consistent 1:1 executive coaching
meetings over three months, we highlighted
perception gaps in leadership competencies, created a development plan, and worked through the behavioral shifts in an action-oriented way, leveraging insights, learning, and progress. Through a 360 Leadership Circle Profile Assessment, we were able to share with our client the effect his leadership style was having on his direct reports and the end product.
Once the client was clear on his impact (positive and negative), we focused on shifting his mindset to motivating people to do quality work and collaborate better around goals, thereby changing his approach with colleagues and reports.
RESULTS
- The executive now approaches the team
and the work with a mindset of collaboration and generosity, resulting in better work
all around. - Regular check-ins with reports and colleagues are opportunities to take their pulse on his leadership and their morale. This has been especially important for those with previously damaged relationships.
- From all reports, he is a changed man, with changed priorities, and doing better work with a stronger team.
