How long does executive coaching take to make a difference?
Dave O'Connor's standard coaching engagement is a quarterly cycle of six 60-minute sessions, and many leaders find that a specific decision moves within it. No number of sessions guarantees a result, and Dave does not promise outcomes. A single Decision Day session is available for leaders who want to work one decision first.
How long is a standard engagement?
One quarter. Six 60-minute sessions, held every other week, virtual or in person.
When does a leader notice a difference?
A difference shows in the decisions the leader makes, and it shows at different points for different leaders. A postponed decision can move in a single session once the real question is named. The nonprofit CEO described on the new-CEO page committed to his first-quarter decisions within his first two sessions. Changes in how a leader handles a team or a board take longer, because they depend on practice between sessions.
What affects how long it takes?
The number and type of decisions matter, and so does the practice a leader puts in between sessions. A leader who sets one clear decision for the cycle tends to see it settled faster than one carrying several linked ones.
Is there a faster option?
Decision Day is one four-hour session on one decision, with a defined start and finish. Decision Day suits a leader who wants to work a specific call before deciding on a longer engagement.
Does Dave promise results?
No. Dave does not promise outcomes or quote figures. He commits to the structure and the questions, and the leader makes the decisions.
How does a leader start?
A 30-minute intro call with Dave is a fit check. If there is a fit, Dave proposes the engagement that suits the situation.
Can an engagement continue beyond a quarter?
Yes. Most clients continue for three to six cycles. Dave and the leader discuss renewal in the fifth session of each cycle, so the decision is made before the cycle ends.
About Dave
Dave O'Connor is an executive coach based in Market Square, Lake Forest, Illinois, who works with senior leaders in person and virtually. He holds the ICF PCC credential and is a former president of a private equity-owned company. He coaches founders, CEOs and owners on personnel, product, partner and positioning decisions.
Dave O'Connor, Executive Coach · 253 Market Sq Ste C, Lake Forest, IL 60045 · 518-727-6531 · Mon-Fri 9am-5pm