Some surprises are very pleasant. This one came out of the blue: “It is our pleasure to inform you that you have been nominated for a Coaching at Work award in the category ‘External Coaching/Mentoring Champion’. “ Goodness!
What has been even lovelier is reading the kind words from people supporting the nomination:
“Neil has a rare eye for the invisible, for potential before it even begins to glitter, a kind ear to the tenderness of growth below the surface, and the zen like patience to nurture it to blooming… a great coach who has had a ripple effect in a whole country and the world.”
“…a deep understanding of our organisation, stakeholders and culture.
“…outstanding advice and support.”
“…utterly commits to the work we are doing and the big change we are striving for.”
“Sometimes I asked myself: how can Neil know me and our organisation that well?”
“He doesn’t shy away from the hard stuff.”
“He created such a fearless and connected environment.”
“…It has enabled me to think differently and to positively challenge myself in the way I behave – both in my professional and personal life.”
“He listens with genuine empathy.”
“He naturally tunes into my emotional state.”
“He is human and authentic …always in the moment with you.”
“The results are inspiring… I am able to open up more and to take more risks. I gained self-confidence. My team members report back that I became more patient, they feel more supported, they feel more responsible, they take over more ownership and our working environment has become more relaxed.”
“I am not only benefiting in my professional, but in my entire life from it.”
“Neil is incredibly generous with his time and talents. Whether it’s travelling internationally to volunteer at the global level, prioritizing writing the regular column, or finding ways to bring like minds together for meaningful conversations, Neil makes time to serve both his clients and the coaching profession.… His strength of ensuring we’re asking the right questions inevitably leads to raising standards for decisions, policy, and practices in our profession. He genuinely embodies Champion for our profession, and I hope he is recognized for his contributions.”
“Neil is one of the most authentic people I know… He is thoughtful and thought provoking… His integrity and generosity in sharing opportunities encourage peers to follow his lead and create an honourable ball park in which to collaborate.”
“…a dedicated and a soulful mentor… He is able to connect with his mentees on all three levels: head (innovative ideas, creating insights), heart (creating safety and boosting heart connection with those around you) and body (genuine and grounded presence and boost for action where needed).”
“Neil’s thoughtfulness and the depth and quality of his thinking is always stimulating and commands great respect within the coaching community… In my view he is one of the best writers on coaching today”.
Phew!
May I offer my deep thanks to everyone who shared their thoughts and experiences with the judging panel. It’s been a joy and an honour to support you and your great work through the team and 1:1 coaching, mentoring, advising and support, and the speaking and writing.
The judges themselves commented: “Authentic, challenging, generous with time and talents, a genuine desire to see sustainable change for all.”
The final decision? Highly Commended.
The work continues. As I write here, a heat wave is approaching and a big political decision is about to be announced. I know how urgent it all is. Thank you again to all.
