News & Blog

“Executive Coaching Boosted My Clarity, Decision-Making, and Confidence”

We believe one of the most powerful investments you can make is in yourself. We understand that it can be lonely at the top and that having a coach whose “been there, done that” before is extremely valuable.

We recently partnered alongside Lesley Ridge Allen, Vice President of Communications, Marketing, and Enrollment for the Erie Catholic School System, to provide her with a personalized coaching experience.

Read her full experience below!

1. Explain who you are, the position you hold, and the company you’re with.

I am the Vice President of Communications, Marketing, and Enrollment for the Erie Catholic School Systems. Our organization includes six K-8 schools in Erie County, Pennsylvania, and my role involves creating unified strategies to enhance communications, marketing, and student enrollment across the system.

2. Explain a little about the coaching program itself. The format, the tools that were used, the atmosphere created, etc.

The coaching program I participated in through Decision Associates was flexible, using a combination of virtual and in-person meetings, as well as other communication tools like Marco Polo to keep us connected and accountable. The atmosphere was supportive and collaborative, which created a conducive environment for growth and reflection.

3. From your perspective, what was the value of engaging with a third-party provider to facilitate your coaching versus doing it in-house?

Engaging with a third-party provider like Decision Associates offered an external perspective that was unbiased and insightful. It also allowed me to step outside of my immediate work environment and dedicate focused time to leadership development, which would have been harder to do internally. The objective nature of third-party coaching helped me explore areas for growth that I may have overlooked in an in-house setting.

4. How did Decision Associates’ individual coaching program differ from others that you have been a part of elsewhere or have looked at engaging with in the past?

Decision Associates’ individual coaching program stood out to me compared to others I have considered due to its emphasis on truly understanding my root experiences and working towards meaningful behavioral change. Elizabeth’s approach was highly personalized, and her accessibility and insight were key differentiators, making the coaching feel less like a structured program and more like a deep personal journey.

5. What positive changes have your witnessed in yourself since beginning individual leadership coaching sessions?

Since beginning individual leadership coaching, I have seen significant improvements in my clarity of purpose, which has translated into more effective decision-making and confidence in my leadership. It also helped me identify areas for personal growth that directly contribute to my ability to lead with empathy  and understanding, ultimately creating a stronger foundation for success in my role.

6. What has been the biggest take away from your coaching sessions that has made the most positive impact on your leadership communication skills and career potential?

The biggest takeaway from my coaching sessions has been understanding how my past experiences influence my current behavior. This self-awareness has had a tremendous impact on my communication skills, allowing me to be more authentic and intentional, which has not only improved my professional relationships but has also opened up new opportunities for my career growth.

7. One of Decision Associates’ core values is commitment to long-last relationships. Describe your current relationship with Decision Associates.

My current relationship with Decision Associates is one of trust and continuity. Elizabeth is someone I feel I can reach out to for guidance whenever I need it. Her commitment to my growth goes beyond our formal coaching sessions – it’s clear that the long-lasting relationship is a core value for her, which makes me confident in the ongoing support I receive.

8. What would you say the leader of an organization who is considering Decision Associates as his or her individual leadership coaching partner?

To a leader considering Decision Associates as a coaching partner, I would say that working with them will help you uncover deeper insights into yourself as a leader and empower you to make transformative changes that positively impact your team and organization. The personalized approach, combined with Elizabeth’s expertise, makes it an incredibly valuable investment in your personal and professional development.