Swindon Coaching Team

Swindon Coaching Team: Swindon Coaching Team on the Radio again

2011-12-19T14:11:00.000Z

Swindon Coaching Team: Swindon Coaching Team on the Radio again

Among the topics we discussed was the differences between customer service in the UAE and UK. I believe a key difference is job security. In the UAE jobs and visas last very little time and it is difficult to change jobs. And its not in job descriptions to 'go the extra mile' and delegation is not encouraged. Customer service is 'following the rules' .

From personal experience it required (non forthcoming) authorisation to give me the additional £50 it had cost me to get a battery replaced, together with three visits to the hire company, the cost of my and their time far outweighed the amounts disputed. This happened time and time again.
When a hotel receptionist mischarged me for my room, her fear for her job was palpable, and I spent most of my time reassuring her that we all make mistakes and that she would be OK.
A good way to judge any organisation is how it rectifies mistakes. With increasing job insecurity in the UK, the same reactions are likely to happen here, unless management takes retains its positive approach to delegation and acknowledges that we all make mistakes. Not in keeping with the 6 sigma brigade I know - so "let he who is without sin, cast the first stone".

Swindon Coaching Team on the Radio again

2011-11-21T09:00:00.000Z

This evening between 6:00 and 7:00 p.m. David and Richard will be chatting with Gerry and Peter on Swindon Radio. They'll be answering questions to help people with business growth, career development, and handling stress.

This is Swindon Radio's show "Mind your own business" - the show that looks at issues of concern to local businesses. You can listen - anywhere - on the internet at Swindon Radio 105.5 (click on Listen Live) or on a real radio in the Swindon area at 105.5 FM

Geography is no barrier

2011-11-21T08:50:00.000Z

Continuing our theme on international business, Swindon Coaching Team member Richard Hovey's latest assignment was in response to a request for coaching from the Managing Director designate of a multi-national firm who is living in China. Although Richard has found telephone coaching to be effective, he says that using video technology such as Skype allows far richer non-verbal communication and this really does away with ideas that coaching people - for example to develop their business or career - can only be done face-to-face.

Asking for help in the United Arab Emirates

2011-11-18T15:42:00.014Z

Swindon Coaching Team Member David Rigby recently spent eight months in the desert near Abu Dhabi coaching and advising the government on customer service.

David (you've guessed it on the right of the picture) says:

The Abu Dhabi Municipality offers 400 services to its people. With the opening of one-stop-shops, in the six cities in the Abu Dhabi desert area known as Western Region, the citizens were no longer obliged to travel the 100-200 miles to Abu Dhabi to undertake several transactions. One hundred of these services were, in theory, offered at the one-stop-shops, called TAMM centers. In practice only three of them could be undertaken in one visit. I developed processes to enable all the services to be offered through media including web, phone, call centre, SMS etc. They were all redesigned to international standards and to standard templates. None of which would be of much use unless the frontline staff knew how to use them, so this is where my coaching skills became very important.

My client was Ebrahim Alhosani Director/ Integrated Government Services Western Region Municipality, And on first meeting he said “I am studying for my masters from Harvard, what do you study?” One of my clear learning objectives is about spontaneity, and thinking on my feet responded “I study learning who to ask for help."

The only way I could manage this project was to ask for help and give help in return. The key challenge was always knowing who to ask without losing face.

As a first-time visitor to UAE at the beginning my main challenge was the food – what it was and more importantly how to eat it. I took my training very seriously – first of all asking my Arabic assistant how to eat rice with my right hand without it spilling everywhere. Not to mention how to eat while sitting on the floor on special occasions – including making sure my feet pointed the right way.

One of my team from Jordan asked me why I asked people for help, as it appeared to be a sign of weakness in his culture (at least among the males). I told him that it saved so much time and gave better results. An example I gave him, was that I discussed with his boss how to get a number of documents printed and rapidly delivered to me from 100 miles away. He suggested using a taxi. It worked brilliantly.

My Arabic customer services trainer, Maher Al Nukkary, asked me for help with his life. I coached him to identify and live his vision: he is now in Australia studying for his second degree in translation. I never told him what to do only helped him make a decision.

Some of the work required demonstrating international best practice - EFQM (European Foundation for Quality Management) and ISO (international Standards Organisation). Not my best subjects, but I knew who to ask for help from my colleagues in the UK, which was based on the relationships I had built in the past.

One of the things we wanted to know was what the citizens thought of the service they were currently getting . So, we asked them!

We were looking to improve the way the customer facing staff worked. Who are the people who are best likely to know? You guessed right! So - we asked the staff!

So how do you ask for help without losing face? It’s about developing a mutual trust with the person you are asking for help, and making yourself available to help people.

This is when your coach can be a very important person. Someone you know and trust, who can help you identify the issues and enable you to decide who and how to approach to resolve them. Someone who you know who’s on your side.

Changes to government £1000 grant scheme for businesses, charities, and social enterprise

2011-09-16T12:50:00.004+01:00

Up to £1000 of matched funding is available per organisation to help it's leaders to devleop their skills and grow the business. (That is, to receive £1000 you need to spend £1000 too!)

The current Leadership and Management Advisory Service (LMAS) scheme has been running since April 2011. If you benefitted from the previous scheme you are still allowed to benefit from this one. If you are to qualify, these are the key criteria.

For businesses

Planned growth of 20% per year over the next 3 years - in turnover or staff numbers.
More than one person involved in the organisation, ideally two or more full-time equivalent employees. (Technically: "have at least one employee in addition to the senior leader.")
Not more than 250 staff.

For social enterprises / charities

As above, however growth requirement is 10% per year over three years.
Support could be given to unpaid staff such as a trustee

As the scheme progresses, and individual applications are considered, it becomes clearer which businesses qualify. There has also been some "softening" in requirements as we have seen that the criteria for growth are about plans and not a need to show growth from past results.

We can help with coaching, training and other solutions to help you to develop your leadership and thus your business. We can talk through with you this and other grant opportunities for your business.

Contact us now to find out more!

Swindon Networking

2011-07-18T20:39:00.002+01:00

Isla and I were at the Swindon Connections networking event this month representing the Swindon Coaching Team. It was a good turn out with many visiting our stand interested to find out more about what Coaching has to offer.
The presentation for the evening was given by Brad Burton managing director of 4 networking. His approach was down to earth and thought provoking, making several interesting points such as:

It doesn't matter who you speak to when networking, if they do not bring you business they may know someone who will

Be yourself, because people buy from 'people'

Accept you will make mistakes in business

Be committed to your business idea and stick with it, because others,who might be your competition, may drop out during the recession

Finally, we would like to congratulate Kevin Belson photography for winning a coaching session as part of our regular competition at the connections event.

Coaching is the answer for Just in Time Training

2011-06-17T10:35:00.000+01:00

Just in Time Training seems to be the "in thing." This is about receiving training in short blocks just when you need it. People recognise that if they go on a training course and do not make use of what they learn immediately, they forget it.

Coaching, including that which we deliver, uses as its raw material the fresh challenges that the client faces. It helps clients to learn from their experience and to grow in the skill of learning from their experience, so coaching is great for embedding training.

It is worth remembering that coaching can also be used to develop other new skills, Just In Time, without taking any further time away from work and in a completely bespoke way. You choose what you want to learn and apply the training to your actual situation, in a way that is not constrained by the content and context of any fixed course materials.

You just need to make sure that your coach has a sufficient skill base in the relevant area, and we'd be happy to talk to you about that!

Presenters impressed by wealth of experience

2011-06-17T09:30:00.002+01:00

Thanks to those who listened in to our guest appearance on Swindon Radio 105.5 on Monday evening. Regular presenter Gerry Reilly was joined by Peter Jones from the Federation of Small Businesses to interview Richard, Ann-Marie and Stephen from the Swindon Coaching Team.

I enjoy these conversations, and part of the excitement is never quite knowing what the presenters, or listeners who phone in, will want to ask about. The conversation was wide ranging with a lot of interest in the history of our team, what coaching is all about, and what people might experience from an encounter with us. We emphasised that coaching is personal, and so people usually want to meet us, have an informal chat, and get to know us before deciding on any coaching – and that is the way we work. We mentioned our next event at Swindon Connections, and our current special offer of free coaching taster sessions.

Peter was interested in the range of different kinds of coaching we offer (from business coaching to relationship coaching to coaching young people) and wanted to hear about the background and experience of the coaches in the team. I think I was as surprised as him to realise the diversity of backgrounds we have, which help us to connect with our clients and their issues. Our collective backgrounds include work in sexual health, in Information Technology, as a doctor, in marketing, hypnotherapy, and starting a business... I won’t take up space with the full list!

The last laugh was had by Stephen when he was asked about good techniques for stress-busting. He talked about the benefits of a good belly laugh and how he has been instrumental in setting up a laughter club in Swindon!

More work at Bible Society

2011-06-08T20:22:00.005+01:00

Our coaches were again at Bible Society today. We are continuing to offer pithy half-hour coaching sessions to employees. For convenience these sessions are held during and after the lunch period and there is no cost to those taking part.

The sessions delivered today were much appreciated. We are grateful for this opportunity to offer this coaching which helps staff to deal with work or personal matters in this way which is of benefit to them and will also increase their enjoyment and effectiveness in the workplace!

We look forward to continued involvement with Bible Society, and welcome enquiries from other local businesses or charities who are interested in this scheme.

Catch the team on the radio

2011-06-08T15:53:00.004+01:00

Stephen, Ann-Marie and Richard will be chatting with Gerry and Alvin on Monday 13th June between 6pm and 7pm on 'Mind your own business' - the show that looks at issues of concern to local businesses. They'll be discussing how they help people achieve success and giving tips on stress busting, relationship problems and business development.
SwindonFM is the channel (105.5 on the dial) or listen on the Internet here

Our coaching team gets you back on track

2011-06-02T09:44:00.003+01:00

Well - it's now flaming June - somehow we now find ourselves halfway through the year. So how are you getting on with those new year resolutions you made in January?
If you promised yourself you'd join the local gym and get on the road to better health but find yourself slipping then our coaching team can help you find that inspiration and motivation you need to get you back on track.
Team member and GP Dr Stephen Brooke not only runs a busy practice but is also our resident Health and Wellness coach, and is the person to talk to ...
If that romance that started out so well at the beginning of the year is no longer blossoming you might like to get in touch with Ann-Marie Conroy, our specialist in personal relationships.
Coaches Richard Hovey, Isla Baliszewska, and Di Morgan are always on hand to help you on the work front if you feel that you could do with a mid-year change of direction.

Link-up with Bible Society grows

2011-05-26T15:57:00.002+01:00

Yesterday Isla and I enjoyed talking to the monthly meeting of all British Bible Society staff in Swindon, about the value of coaching at home and at work, in advance of free taster sessions we are offering to staff there next month.

In building relationships with local employers, we see coaching "taster sessions" as a good way of raising awareness of the benefits of coaching. People receiving a taster session may well bring personal rather than work-related issues, but whatever we talk about there will be a knock-on benefit to the employer.

We are interested in doing similar work with other businesses and charities. Get in touch!

2011-05-14T11:34:00.003+01:00

There was a big turn-out for the Swindon Connections evening on Thursday 12th May at the newly refurbished De Vere Hotel. The hotel did us proud with an interesting selection of nibbly bits in their brand new 'Inspirations' suite. The speaker was Sharon Wright (of Dragons Den fame) and her talk could have been entitled 'inspirations' as well. A tale of rags to riches (well sort of), a big let down, illness, and rising again despite all odds. She held the audience spellbound throughout and there was a big queue to buy her book afterwards.
Stephen and Di were there for the Swindon Coaching Team, and although we can't promise fame on quite the scale of Sharon Wright, remember we are here to help inspire you!

Government Leadership Grant extended

2011-05-10T08:30:00.003+01:00

Many people were caught out at the end of last year, when the UK government scheme to support leaders of small businesses was so successful that it ran out of money before its intended deadline this April, despite urgings not to leave applications to the last minute. Changes to government funding meant that we were not expecting the scheme to continue, despite the large number of our clients that had benefitted from the £1000 grant.

The good news is that the scheme has just been relaunched, to run until March 2012 - but don't leave it until the last moment to get in touch with us! It doesn't matter whether you have received a grant from a similar scheme in the past.

This time around, the Leadership and Management Advisory Service grant will give up to £1000 (matched funding) to the key leaders of growing firms with between 2 and 249 staff - to help with the development of people and processes in the organisation through interventions such as coaching and workshops.

Businesses need to be able to show planned growth of 20% in staff or turnover for each of the following three years (10% for Social Enterprise). Firms less than 12 months old need to show plans for turnover of £500,000 after three years.

Full details of the scheme in the South of England are here:
http://www.skillssoutheast.co.uk/leadership-and-management.html

To explore how best to benefit from this scheme, to talk through the growth potential of your business, or to start an application, call us now!

Swindon Coaching Team.

Connect with us at Swindon Connections

2011-04-07T12:01:00.007+01:00

Swindon Connections is the new - well newish - kid on the block in the Swindon business scene. As one of the event partners, SCT will be at the De Vere village on Thursday 12th May, with a warm welcome and all sorts of ideas to help you and your business.
Come along and hear Dragon Slayer Sharon Wright talk about her success on the programme 'Dragon's Den' with her award winning cable threading invention, and subsequent book documenting the unexpected setbacks she has since encountered.

Where: De Vere Village, Shaw Ridge Leisure Park, Whitehall Way, Swindon SN5 7DW
When: 1800 - 2030 Thursday 12th May 2011
Further details: www.business-scene.com

Spring at the National Trust

2011-03-21T09:47:00.002Z

There was a definite spring in the step of people dropping by our regular monthly event at the National Trust cafe. It must have been the sight of our blue and white banner, not to mention the wonderful spring sunshine that lifted their spirits. The spring season brings a feeling of renewal and the urge to shake off the accumulated dullness of winter, so if you feel now's a good time to expand your wings, do get in touch.

Life expectancy increases

2011-03-18T10:22:00.001Z

According to the BBC today, life expectancy in the UK is on the rise. Maybe there are more years ahead of you in work and life than you had imagined, which makes it all the more important to be in touch with what you enjoy and what you are good at so that you spend your time on what is both fulfilling and rewarding. Are you trapped in a job that no longer 'fits'?

Get in touch to find out how we can help you enjoy life and work to the max!

Connected in Swindon

2011-03-17T10:19:00.000Z

The Swindon Coaching Team continue to enjoy building local networking and helping local individuals and businesses to grow, through joining in with Swindon Connections. So we were pleased to support the event last night, and thanks to all our new contacts for getting in touch.

Helping you get more out of life

2011-03-09T09:19:00.001Z

The next National Trust event is on Wednesday 9th March at Helis in the NT Restaurant and Cafe. We will be there between 12 noon and 2pm so if you are nipping into the Outlet Centre for a quick lunchtime shop or snack do pop into the NT to catch up, meet a few more of us and have a chat about how we can help you make some changes or deal with challenges.

Swindon Connections are at Swindon College on 16th March from 6pm - sign up for this event which is a great way to meet new contacts and see what is happening on the Swindon business scene. Warren gave a very entertaining talk at the last one - for those of you who missed it, look up the Youtube video for United Airlines broke my Guitar!

Debs wins the prize at Swindon Business Show

2011-02-18T09:10:00.002Z

Thanks to everyone who left their contact details with us at the show - for our newsletter and to enter our prize draw. We look forward to keeping in touch and contributing to the development of your businesses.

We're pleased to announce the winner. Debs Robbins of Network Central has won the hour of free coaching, which we have arranged to take place early in March. Well done!

Full steam ahead for the Business Show at the STEAM museum

2011-02-14T15:09:00.005Z

The team had a great time at the Swindon Business Show last week and lots of people picked up our brand new brochure, at the same time as dropping their business cards into the pot for the chance of winning one of our free coaching sessions. 450 people visited the show which was about double the number the organisers were expecting and there certainly was a buzz about the place with seminars on social marketing as well as sticky marketing (what's that - we hear you ask). The rumour that David Cameron and entourage were going to visit proved unfounded in the end! Despite his absence, it was great to see old friends and chat to other business people.

Isla and Richard at the Swindon Business Show

2011-02-07T14:55:00.006Z

Isla - doing interesting things with pompoms - and Richard will be joined by Di at this Thursday's Business Show in Swindon. Between 10 am and 4 pm there will be up to 80 exhibitors at STEAM in the GWR complex near the Designer Outlet Village. You can find us on stand 24 or look out for the pompoms as they fly .....
To find out more and register for a free ticket follow this link.

Cheerleaders and the Pom Pom Paradigm

2011-01-31T11:32:00.000Z

Picture this – you have your own personal virtual cheerleader at your disposal, complete with pom-poms, that you can take out at any time to wave you on whenever you feel your life is flagging.

New Year is a time when we have an instinctive desire to make changes. Seeing this as an opportunity to add to our lives rather than taking something away is a refreshing viewpoint and one which is very trendy. The Telegraph recently gave us tips on how learning something new can bring a new dimension to your holiday experience and the Observer suggested some learning curves for a few of our business leaders “Perhaps bankers could go to charm school, BA could make friends with the unions and Warren Buffett could understand where he has gone astray”.
(http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2011/jan/02/business-new-year-resolutions)

Before we get back to pom-poms, what are we actually doing when we make a resolution? We are committing to changing the way that we think and act. The easy part is the deciding to change, the less easy part is the deciding what to change, the even less easy part is the deciding how to change it, and the most difficult part is making that change. And that’s not to mention all the dithering and excuses that surround resolutions, before you even get to start learning or having your new life experiences. And here’s where the pom-pom paradigm comes in.

Thinking and acting differently is a challenge and one very simple way to ensure this is to have a cheerleader or two. In another Telegraph article a 2005 study was quoted which highlighted the importance of personal perceptions of self-control affecting the likelihood of achieving goals. Self-control – a big word, and an even bigger action. Time to turn to your cheerleaders! Look around, where are the pom-pom wavers? Who is there to help you keep on course, support you when you dither, ensure you are making the right choices and have the right strategies to see these through?

Happily, the coaches at the Swindon Coaching Team provide cheerleaders for all types of personal and work related change, supporting business leaders, career professionals and individuals looking for personal change. We have the metaphorical pom-poms to provide the supportive cheer needed to make good choices and achieve effective outcomes. And we have a lot of other clever stuff to see you on your way forward to personal or business growth.

Internet - help or hindrance?

2011-01-29T15:43:00.001Z

I've just read a fascinating article by Tim Weber, BBC News Editor, reporting from the 2011 Economic Forum in Davos as he chats to business leaders in a sea of laptops and other mobile devices.

He reflects on how we are now "hyperconnected" with mobile devices now outnumbering both laptops and toothbrushes. Is all this information which is changing the way that we relate and shop, that is "the abundant distractions of the internet" a help or a hindrance? If the size of my inbox is anything to go by, I suspect it is a hindrance!

In this age where people's brands or reputations can be destroyed in seconds, advice to leaders is "treat your employees with respect and stick to your values" and make sure you find time to think and to reflect. This sounds like a good summary for success in the 21st Century information age. Discovering ways to be true to your individual and corporate values, and to find time to make good decisions that flow from these, sound like good topics for a conversation with your coach.

Full article here: the photo brings the message home!

Swindon Coaching Team at Swindon Business Show 10th February

2011-01-20T13:14:00.001Z

Put the date in your diary (10th February) and come and say hello at the Swindon Business Show. Follow the link for more info and for a free visitor's ticket.

Our team will be there on the Swindon Coaching Team stand (nr 24), and we can chat to you about ways to develop yourself, your staff, or your organisation to get the prosperous 2011 that you deserve.

See you there!

Our next coaching event: Wed 19th January evening

2011-01-13T13:31:00.004Z

We're meeting at the Madison Hotel, Swindon, which is a great venue - with Swindon Connections. Come along to find out more about how coaching from our wise and experienced team can help you to turn your hopes into reality in 2011.

This evening is also an opportunity to get to know local networking organisations, and to hear Swindon Connection's own Warren Cass talk about how Social Media needs to be all about creating experiences.

The Swindon Coaching Team is all about supporting businesses and individuals in one of Europe's fastest-growing and thriving towns - Swindon! What help would you like to turn your hopes into reality this year?

Start time is 6:00 p.m., ends at 8:30 p.m., and refreshments including a light buffet will be provided - so the £10 ticket is good value. For best results, book in online. Full details, location, and booking form here.

We're also always happy to answer your questions online. Comments here are welcome!

Yesterday at the National Trust

2011-01-13T13:26:00.002Z

Again we had a good turn-out at the National Trust cafe. The ambience is bright and friendly which makes it a great place to meet and chat.

Those we talked to again had the opportunity either for a chat or some coaching there and then, or could take away a voucher offering them a free introductory coaching session.

Wednesday 12th January lunchtime...

2011-01-07T12:34:00.005Z

Here's a reminder about our next "drop in" event on Wednesday 12th January in Swindon and details of the venue. This is an opportunity to chat to some of our coaches to resolve current issues (free) or just to find out about coaching.

It's fun! Last month Gerry (a Financial Adviser from Swindon) commented, it was good just to see how they operate. It was very laid back... a very good experience... I would recommend it.

Like others who have used our coaching, you may find it useful to:

Enhance your career and increase job satisfaction
Improve your relationships
Move your business forward
Reduce stress or manage change
Build confidence or resilience

So, whether you want to take a break from work or from sale shopping, drop in anytime between noon and 2 p.m. on Wednesday 12th January at the National Trust Cafe and Restaurant next to the McArthur Glen Outlet Village in Swindon (Kemble Drive, SN2 2NA). No need to book.

If you can't make it to this, then our next event will be Swindon Connections on the evening of Wednesday 19th January. More info to follow.

See you there!

New year resolutions

2011-01-02T14:37:00.002Z

How many new year resolutions have you made for 2011? If you're anything like me, you'll have answered 'none', because I know I shan't be able to keep any of them. I know from bitter experience, it gets really hard to keep up the good work by the middle of January, and that's exactly where our coaches can help. We've got one of our free drop-in sessions on Wednesday 12th January at the National Trust Cafe in Swindon and we shall be there, helping you to keep those resolutions, and maybe even helping you with others you've only dreamed about.
After the last drop-in session Gerry R, an independent financial advisor, said "it was good just to see how they operate. It was very laid back, but they are obviously listening...... I found that a very good experience, and clearly they are professional people .... I would recommend it. I've experienced it!"

How to avoid the post-Christmas blues!

2010-12-23T13:31:00.002Z

This is the final part of my interview on Radio Swindon 105.5 on 13th December. It is 5 minutes long. If you prefer you can listen to the whole 29 minutes audio: streaming or download.

Developing staff at Bible Society

2010-12-16T15:11:00.004Z

A team of our coaches recently spent a few hours one lunchtime at the Swindon HQ of Bible Society to offer coaching taster sessions to staff. The event was the culmination of discussions with the Human Resources Team at Bible Society to see how Swindon Coaching Team could increase awareness of the value of coaching to bring benefits to individuals and to Bible Society.

We are pleased with how this first event at Bible Society went. Seven people had conversations with members of our team on a range of confidential issues. The Human Resources Team have told us that it was "successful" and the feedback from most people who received coaching was that their needs had been met with coaching that was excellent or very good. We continue to be available to provide further help and support.

We are keen to build relationships with local employers, to help staff to resolve personal or business issues effectively and confidentially, and thus help with employee development and engagement. If this is of interest to you, contact us.

Richard live on Swindon Radio 105.5

2010-12-13T07:00:00.001Z

I’ve been invited on to Swindon Radio 105.5 this evening (Monday 13th December) to talk about how individuals and businesses can cope and move on in the current financial climate, and how coaching can help with that.

This is the 6:00 p.m. slot which is hosted by the Federation of Small Business. I’ll be on from 6:00 until about 7:00 - and there’s music as well.

To listen for fun or interest, it is easy to do so online: http://www.swindon1055.com/

See later posts for recordings of this inteview...

Swindon Connections a winner again...

2010-11-26T13:24:00.002Z

Last night's event at the new Jury's Inn was a great success. We like the way that we can partner with Swindon Connections to hold regular events at different Swindon venues because this also gives us a way of keeping in touch with our colleagues, clients, and friends as well as meeting and encouraging others who run their own businesses. I think that all those we met last night benefitted from conversations with us about coaching and also made new business contacts.

Maybe it's worth coming along just for the speakers. Last night Warren had arranged for Josie Payne to speak about Emotional Intelligence. I'm not used to people showing videos of Mike Tyson biting an ear off during a boxing match (it belonged to Evander Holyfield) but then this was one of the clearest talks I've heard on Emotional Intelligence. Josie spoke of the challenges of controlling our emotions when we are under stress in a way that we could relate to and apply straight away. Her own interest in the subject flowed from her experience of being on an aeroplane that was hijacked.

Get in touch if you'd like support with your own business, career, or life issues - whether or not you have ever bitten off someone's ear. Use the Christmas holiday to start the new year with fresh enthusiasm and a clear sense of direction. The free taster sessions we are offering at the moment are a great gift for this.

Watch this space for dates of our next events.

Reminder: SCT at Jury's Inn

2010-11-22T10:00:00.001Z

Here's a reminder to join us at Jury's Inn, Swindon, for our next event on Thursday 25th November.

As usual it's an opportunity to meet our coaches and to gain new perspectives and solutions on your current issues with some of us. We're continuing to give out vouchers for free coaching taster sessions.

In addition, there will be an opportunity to meet exhibitors at this Business Scene event, and the speaker that evening will be Josie Payne talking about Emotional Intelligence from an unusual angle.

So, make a it a date. Start time is 6:00 p.m., ends at 8:30 p.m., and refreshments including a light buffet will be provided - so the £10 ticket is good value. For best results, book in online. See you there!

Full details, location, and booking form here.

National Trust Cafe and Restaurant

2010-11-10T16:24:00.001Z

This was our latest drop in event at the National Trust cafe next to the McArthur Glen Outlet Village in Swindon. The team of Isla, Martin, Ann-Marie and Di were there at lunchtime under our distinctive blue and white banner chatting to people who were interested to hear about our free taster sessions. Our Wheel of Life aroused interest as it's a useful way to help assess where your priorities lie. The buzz of people both in and out of the cafe as well as those working in the building was definitely enlivened by a large group of ladies wearing purple outfits with bright red hats. The Swindon Coaching Team have not yet adopted a uniform - but maybe ... just maybe we should .....

You can meet us on Thursday 25th November at Jury's Inn in Swindon. More info to follow. We'll be there from 6 pm, but we can't promise about our outfits ....

Next SCT "drop in" event 10th November

2010-11-01T15:49:00.003Z

This is one of our great opportunities for you to use one of our free taster sessions to

move your business forward
enhance your career
improve your relationships
reduce the stress in your life

Or, if you prefer, you can use the drop in event just to meet and chat to some of our team or find out what coaching is all about. It's happening on Wednesday 10th November at the National Trust Cafe and Restaurant next to the McArthur Glen Outlet Village in Swindon (Kemble Drive, SN2 2NA) from 12.00 to 2.00 pm.

So, if you work nearby, are out on a shopping spree or would like to add some interest to your lunchtime, come along! We look forward to seeing you.

National Self-Build & Renovation Centre

2010-09-24T16:51:00.003+01:00

If you've never been to the National Self-Build & Renovation Centre in Swindon you've missed a treat. It's an Aladdin's Cave of information and displays on how to renovate or build your own home. They even run courses.

In the middle of this vast warehouse is a Show Home, and our Swindon Connections networking evening took place in this. So it was very comfortable, and lent itself well to enjoyable and relaxed conversation over good drinks and nibbles.

It was good to meet again some of our friends and followers (thanks for being there) and to make new relationships. All this builds well our vision of increased availability of good coaching for organisations based in or near Swindon.

Our vouchers offering our free coaching taster sessions were well received. If you'd like one yourself, email or phone us.

Benefits of Coaching

2010-09-20T10:03:00.003+01:00

According to an ICF Client Survey 98.5% of coaching clients said their investment in a coach was well worth the money. Other statistics included:
• A higher level of self-awareness: 67.6%
• Smarter goal-setting: 62.4%
• A more balanced life: 60.5%
• Lower stress levels: 57.1%

(From International Coaching Federation's (ICF) Client Survey. © Copyright 1997-2000 - International Coach Federation. http://www.coachfederation.com/ Download full results here.)

We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events.

September events and how to book.

2010-09-17T11:26:00.003+01:00

We continue to attend popular places and events to give people an opportunity to find out how they may benefit from coaching and experience a taster session. If you'd like to offer us a venue, perhaps so your employees may benefit from free coaching during their lunch hour, then get in touch.

Our upcoming events in September are:

Wednesday 22nd September at the Swindon Connections meeting in the National Self-Build Centre in Swindon from 6:00pm to 8:30pm. Cost is £10+VAT which includes light refreshments: for venue and to book go to event page. Those of you who attended the last one of these in July will know the added benefit of great networking and good visiting speakers.

On Wednesday 29th September we are doing a lunch time drop in event again at the popular Old Bank wine bar in Wood Street Swindon SN1 4AB between 12 noon and 2pm. Drop in anytime. No need to book, and no cost except the drinks you buy!

See you there!

Train to Gain meeting

2010-09-10T15:54:00.001+01:00

Many of our coaching business clients receive grants of hundreds of pounds from Train to Gain's Leadership and Management Advisory Service, because the coaching helps them to develop leadership skills.

I was pleased to be invited to a gathering of Train to Gain's advisers in Swindon this week, to meet up, share information, and help develop this service.

The advisers stay in touch with the firms they have helped, so it was encouraging to discover that they had received good feedback about the coaching we have given, and wanted to connect further clients.

(This grant is due to end early in 2011, so if it is of interest to you get in touch now. email Richard here )

Requests for coaching continue...

2010-08-06T12:58:00.003+01:00

It's easy to imagine that everyone is away in August. The roads are quieter in the rush hour, but not everyone is tied to the school holidays. We're finding continuing requests are coming in from people who'd like support for their business or a clearer sense of direction for their life.

As a team we're planning more events for September onwards. Watch this space.

If you're in a more reflective mood when the weather is warmer, maybe now is the time to take a step back from what you are doing to talk your hopes, plans and goals through with a friendly local coach?

Reminder - 8th July

2010-07-07T14:25:00.001+01:00

Just a reminder that we shall be offering our usual free coaching conversations on Thursday evening - at Swindon Connections. Full details in earlier articles below!

1st July postponed

2010-06-14T18:07:00.000+01:00

We've had to postpone the 1st July event, however we're going ahead with the one on 8th July.

Honing your business - Swindon event

2010-06-08T08:08:00.006+01:00

I'm looking forward to the event on Thursday 8th July, which Isla has already written about. We've teamed up with Business-Scene who organise regular networking events nationally. This means that whether you are there because you are part of their Swindon Connections event, or just want to meet up with our team of coaches, you can enjoy an evening of meeting new business contacts as well as talking through your current issues with an experienced business coach.

This is all happening at The Madison Hotel, Swindon SN3 4TL (near M4 Junction 15) from 6:00 p.m. on Thursday 8th July 2010.

You need to book online to attend. Here's a reminder of the link: http://www.business-scene.com/event_detail.php?e=13372 and we hope to see you there.

All our events are an opportunity to meet some of our team, find out about coaching, and/or experience a free taster session. This event builds on our successful collaboration with BNI networking in Swindon last month.

Rendezvous again in Swindon on 1st July

2010-06-07T12:49:00.005+01:00

After our enjoyable event there in March, we are returning to The Old Bank wine bar in Swindon on Thursday 1st July.

Drop in anytime between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. to meet with one or more of our friendly coaches who you can chat with over a glass of wine or cup of coffee in an informal yet confidential setting.

The address is Wood Street, Old Town, SN1 4AB. Contact us if you need more info. See you there!

As well as meeting some of our team, this is a great opportunity to find out what coaching is about and/or experience some (free) coaching on issues that are current to you. It’s all very relaxed and could provide the insights or impetus that you are looking for in 2010 and beyond – all for no more than the price of a drink.

The coaches in our team are available to help you to make the most of your work and life, but they also have areas of specialisation, to so you can:

move your business forward
enhance your career
improve your relationships
reduce the stress in your life

Football fans may wish to note that July 1st is scheduled to be a World Cup rest day!

SWINDON CONNECTIONS

2010-06-07T12:12:00.001+01:00

The team are going to be at the Swindon Connections networking event on Thursday 8th July - last one I went to was fun and interesting and well worth attending. The next one is at the Maddison Hotel in Swindon , you can find out more and register following this link http://www.business-scene.com/event_detail.php?e=13372.

Following up

2010-06-04T17:21:00.002+01:00

It's good to be continuing to connect with the people we have got to know at our coaching "drop-ins."

This week I enjoyed over an hour's coaching in the Wiltshire sunshine with a local business owner and I think that in the process I learned just as much from his experience. The joys of coaching!

Coaching National Trust HQ, Swindon

2010-05-19T12:30:00.006+01:00

We enjoyed our first coaching event at the National Trust HQ in Swindon, Tuesday lunchtime, and we're pleased with how it went. We liked their spacious, welcoming, and friendly site and we made use of the ground floor café - popular with shoppers and local business people as well as National Trust staff - as our venue.

Our aim is to give more people in the Swindon area the opportunity to find out what coaching is about and experience its benefits. There was interest in what we were doing amongst visitors and staff, and we were able to have a significant number of helpful conversations, which is a good start.

We have been looking for a venue that is comfortable both for people who travel there to meet us, and those who take an interest because we are there. It looks like this fits the bill, so we look forward to using it again, and developing our relationship with the National Trust.

Join us next time! Sign up to our occasional newsletter to find out first about future dates.

Joint event in Swindon last night

2010-05-14T17:02:00.003+01:00

The joint event last night in Swindon with BNI and the Swindon Coaching Team went really well. There were about thirty people there (I lost count) who enjoyed Paul Clegg's engaging talk on building businesses using referrals and social networking, speed networking, and conversations with our coaches.

Great! Watch this space for future events.

Radio Swindon 105.5 business slot

2010-05-11T10:37:00.003+01:00

Thanks to those who listened to the business slot on Swindon 105.5 last night. I enjoyed chatting to the presenter about the benefits of coaching and the Swindon Coaching Team in particular, and the hour passed really quickly. It is a strange feeling being in a small room and not knowing how many people "out there" are listening. It makes me admire successful presenters all the more!

Hear about us on the Radio (2)

2010-05-06T09:00:00.000+01:00

Richard Hovey has been invited again as a guest on Swindon 105.5 Radio at 6pm on 10th May when he'll be talking about coaching and about the Swindon Coaching Team. You can listen online at http://www.swindon1055.com/

NEXT EVENT COMING UP...Details here....

2010-05-04T16:59:00.001+01:00

The team are getting together on Tuesday 18th May for our next free drop-in event which is being held at the National Trust Cafe and Restaurant next to the McArthur Glen Outlet Village in Swindon (Kemble Drive, SN2 2NA). This will be a lunchtime event from 12.30 to 2.00 pm so if you work nearby, are out on a shopping spree or would like to add some interest to your lunchtime, then come and take the opportunity to combine coffee or a snack with an informal chat with us. We'll have our team ready to help you explore new ways to effect change and deal with the things in life that aren't working out quite as you would like.

See you there!

Coaching at the Holiday Inn, Swindon

2010-04-23T13:26:00.006+01:00

We are teaming up with BNI in Swindon to offer both free coaching taster sessions and a workshop on using social media (such as Twitter and Facebook) to help you to develop your business. There's even speed networking available too for those who'd like to try it!

All this is happening at the Holiday Inn Express at M4 Junction 16, Thursday 13th May 2010, 6:00 p.m. for 6:30 start until 8:00. £6. Bring your friends. Contact Richard or any of the Swindon Coaching Team to reserve a place (see "Contact" side panel).

More about the event here (click on the image to enlarge it)

More about BNI here.

May Events from Swindon Coaching Team

2010-04-23T13:19:00.004+01:00

We'll be running at least two events in May. As well as another "coaching cafe" - details to follow, probably on May 18th - we're teaming up with BNI in Swindon to offer both the opportunity for coaching and a workshop on using social media and online networking. This will be on the evening of Thursday 13th May.

See you there!

Launch night

2010-03-29T16:56:00.002+01:00

Although I had to battle my way through wind and rain to Tuesday’s launch of the Swindon Coaching Team at the Old Bank Wine Bar, the atmosphere when I arrived was warm and friendly, and it wasn’t long before several people expressed interest in our free taster session. Some tried out two or three coaches to check our different approaches and find out who would be most appropriate for them personally.

It’s always good to know that people feel their time with a coach has been useful and even better when they feel sufficiently stimulated to try out new ideas and approaches that they had not considered possible before.

As Martin said afterwards “Last night’s coaching session was extremely helpful and I have taken some of your suggestions forward already.  I am particularly struck by your ability to calmly find order in chaos. This has enabled me to start the process of reconstructing a path toward my personal and professional goals. I will be recommending you to colleagues, clients and friends.” 

I felt it had definitely been a worthwhile evening and we agreed to widen our approach and hold more events. The next one will be in mid May probably somewhere in the centre of Swindon.

More details later

Di Morgan

SCT

"Drop in for a coffee and change your life."

2010-03-17T17:52:00.003Z

I like this headline from last week's Swindon Gazette! Here's some of the group you will be relaxing with over a coffee or glass of wine.

Swindon Coaching Team IBC

2010-03-15T14:45:00.002Z

Institute of Business Consulting is keen to promote the event on Mar23rd. We have put on the Web Site and will be sending a flyer to our South West members.
Not often you get such a professional launch. Its bound to be a good event.

First Free "Drop In Coaching Evening"

2010-03-11T13:23:00.002Z

Just a reminder that our first event will take place on Tuesday March 23rd. Join us at the Old Bank Wine Bar, Wood Street, Old Town, Swindon SN1 4AB. Meet our coaches, find out what coaching is about, experience coaching for issues that are live to you. Drop in anytime between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Contact us if you need more info. See you there!

Richard Hovey

2010-03-04T14:07:00.003Z

I am one of the eight coaches forming the Swindon Coaching Team, and I am looking forward to our first meeting at The Old Bank on 23rd March.

What excites me about coaching is seeing people rediscover their talents, strengths, and passions so that they can "fire on all cylinders" at home and at work and enjoy life to the full. This is the focus of my work, whether with businesses or individuals.

It is fed by my own experience in industrial management and in working with people in the charitable sector - so people pick up important tips and skills along the way too. I help people to understand who they are, where they might go, and how to get there. It's all about navigation - hence Finding True North!

See you there!

Hear about us on the Radio!

2010-03-03T08:35:00.000Z

Hope lots of people heard a bit more about the first upcoming Team event on BBC Wiltshire Radio on Mark O'Donnell's show on 19th Feb when Isla was one of the panel guests - by the way congratulations to her co-panellist Mark Wilkinson who received the OBE!

And now we're really looking forward to hearing Richard from the Team on 9th March - tune in to Swindon Radio 105.5 at 6pm when he'll be talking about how the Team was formed and what we have to offer.

Swindon Coaching Team

2010-02-23T17:04:00.002Z

I am very impressed with the quality and breadth of experience of the Coaches in Swindon Coaching Team. So impressed that I was really pleased to be asked to join it. So I have.
Accordingly I look forward to meeting you as part of the team 1t 1830 on March 23rd in Old Bank, Old Town Swindon

2010-02-09T14:42:00.000Z

Really looking forward to the first drop in evening on 23rd March at the Old Bank wine bar in Old Town.

Free Drop In Coaching Evening

2010-02-08T23:09:00.000Z

The coaches in our team are available to help you to make the most of your work and life, but they also have areas of specialisation, to help you to:
We have specialists available to enable you to

move your business forward
enhance your career
improve your relationships
reduce the stress in your life

Improve your life and achieve more in 2010

2010-02-08T23:02:00.000Z

The Swindon Coaching Team meets on a regular and informal basis to help you get more out of your work and life.

Simply, it provides an opportunity for you to 'drop in' and meet a group of friendly coaches and advisers with a wide range of skills who you can chat with over a glass of wine or cup of coffee in an informal setting. It’s very relaxed and could be the impetus you are looking for to really make 2010 a success – all for no more than the price of a drink.

Welcome

2010-01-26T17:14:00.001Z

Welcome to the new site for the Swindon Coaching Team!