What is coaching?

What Is Coaching – and Why Might You Need It?

After 25 years navigating the complexities of product management in the fast-moving world of biotech—especially in the genomics space—I’ve learned that success isn’t just about knowledge and experience. It’s about clarity, confidence, and the ability to move forward with purpose, especially in times of transition. That’s where coaching comes in.

You might be wondering: what exactly is coaching?

Let’s start with the basics.

Coaching Defined

According to the International Coaching Federation (ICF)—the gold standard in the industry—coaching is partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.

That definition might sound abstract, but the essence is simple: coaching helps you get clear about where you’re going, identify the obstacles in your way, and take consistent, accountable action toward your goals. It’s always client-driven—your goals, your insights, your growth.

The Role of a Coach

A professional coach isn’t a consultant or mentor. I won’t give you all the answers, but I will help you uncover them yourself. As your coach, I’ll help you:

• Clarify what you truly want—whether it’s a new role, more balance, or a shift in direction.
• Explore what’s getting in the way—be it mindset, habits, or limiting beliefs.
• Develop strategies and action plans that are uniquely tailored to you.
• Stay accountable and focused as you move forward.

What Coaching Isn’t

To be clear, coaching is not therapy, consulting, mentoring, or training. It’s not about fixing the past—it’s about designing the future. It’s a forward-looking partnership centered around your strengths and your capacity for change.

Why People Hire Coaches

People seek out coaching for many reasons, especially during career transitions or periods of professional reinvention. Common goals include:

• Optimizing individual or team performance
• Improving communication or leadership skills
• Expanding career opportunities
• Managing work/life balance
• Building confidence and self-awareness

In fact, research shows that 43% of coaching clients want to improve performance, 39% aim to communicate better, and 35% are focused on expanding their careers.

Sound familiar?

Why It Matters Now

Whether you’re in biotech, life sciences, or a completely different field, today’s career landscape is more complex than ever. Coaching provides the space to step back, ask the right questions, and move forward with intention. It’s not just about changing jobs—it’s about aligning your work with who you are and what matters most to you.

If you’re ready to explore what’s next in your career—or simply want more clarity and confidence in your current role—coaching can help. And with my background in genomics and product management, I understand the unique challenges and opportunities you face.

Let’s connect—and unlock what’s possible for your next chapter.