When I first stepped into the world of coaching 15 years ago, it wasn’t part of a grand plan. My career began in investment banking, where I spent years navigating high-pressure environments, complex deals, and ambitious career goals.

In my first year as a coach, I noticed a recurring theme among the women I worked with. Many had the same aspiration: to be selected for their organisation’s leadership programme. Being chosen was a mark of distinction – a sign they were finally recognised as top talent. But this ‘golden ticket’ was notoriously difficult to secure. However, as a result of our coaching sessions; one by one, my clients secured places on these highly competitive programmes, achieving their goal of being seen as future leaders.  The approach worked.

The Gaps in Traditional Leadership Programmes

What happened next was revealing. After attending these programmes, my clients would eagerly share their experiences – only to express disappointment. They were hungry to learn, but the structured training – while well-intentioned – often failed to address the real, pressing questions they had about career progression, influence, and long-term success.

While these programmes provided networking opportunities and theoretical leadership models, they lacked a focus on the real-world challenges women face in the workplace. Worse still, some of the advice they received contradicted the very strategies that had helped them earn their place on the programme in the first place.

As I listened to them, I realised how much my own experience in investment banking had equipped me with insights that could help them navigate these challenges. That’s why my approach to coaching – and, in turn, Elevate, our virtual leadership programme – has always been rooted in practical, results-driven tools that make a real impact. And as I shared these strategies, I heard the same reflection time and again: “I wish I had known this sooner.”

Redefining Success in Leadership

Real growth happens when we are all equipped with the right strategies to navigate our careers on our own terms – and the earlier this happens, the better. That’s why practical, actionable guidance is essential. Women don’t just need leadership theories; they need a roadmap that actually works.

If you’ve ever felt that traditional leadership programmes didn’t provide the answers you were looking for, you’re not alone. According to the Global Gender Report 2024, while there has been progress in hiring women into leadership roles, those numbers have declined over the past two years.

It’s time to rethink how we develop leaders. Let’s ensure leadership programmes truly empower women to rise – at every level of an organisation.

If this resonates with you, have a look at our upcoming sessions to see how we can help to unlock – and elevate – the potential in your workplaces.

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