5 ways having a coach will further your design leadership

2023 is quickly drawing to an end and with it sees an unprecedented year of turmoil for the technology sector worldwide. Some of the largest businesses such as Meta, Amazon, and Microsoft have all seen redundancies in the thousands this year. A voice often forgotten within these stories is that of the team leaders faced with the unpleasant and potentially scarring task of managing layoffs.

In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, the role of UX leader or product leader has become increasingly critical. These leaders are responsible for ensuring that digital products and services meet the needs of users while aligning with the company’s goals and objectives. However, being a UX or product leader can be challenging, and it is essential to have the right support system to navigate these complexities. That is where having a coach can be immensely beneficial.

My motivation for developing the UX Coaching™ framework, was to bring my own experiences and methods for understanding problem spaces and approaching challenges in more visual ways than you may experience with other coaches.

Here are some of the key benefits of having a coach if you are in a leadership role in UX, design or product at a digital company.

1. Personalised guidance and support

A coach can provide personalised guidance and support based on your specific needs, challenges, and goals. They can help you develop a clear vision for your role and create a plan to achieve your objectives. Whether you need help with team management, stakeholder engagement, or product strategy, a coach can provide tailored advice to help you succeed.

2. Objective perspective

A coach can offer an objective perspective on your performance and decisions. They can provide constructive feedback and help you identify blind spots that may be hindering your progress. By having someone who can provide honest and unbiased feedback, you can gain new insights and make more informed decisions.

3. Accountability

A coach can help keep you accountable for your goals and commitments. They can provide encouragement and support when you face obstacles or challenges, and hold you accountable for taking action to achieve your objectives. This accountability can help you stay focused and motivated, which is especially important in a fast-paced, high-pressure work environment.

4. Skill development

A coach can help you develop the skills and knowledge needed to excel in your role. They can provide training, resources, and feedback to help you improve your abilities and stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and best practices. Whether you need to improve your leadership skills, communication skills, or technical skills, a coach can help you develop the skills you need to succeed.

5. Faster progress

Working with a coach can help you make faster progress in your role. By having someone who can help you identify and address your weaknesses, provide guidance and support, and hold you accountable for your goals, you can achieve your objectives more quickly and efficiently.

Being a UX or product leader in a digital company can be challenging, but having a coach can help you navigate these complexities and achieve your goals. By providing personalised guidance and support, an objective perspective, accountability, skill development, and faster progress, a coach can be a valuable asset in your professional development journey.