Learning to Lead Through Change with Executive Coaching Support
T&M Associates, a 375-person engineering consulting firm with offices across the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Midwest, was entering a period of significant transformation. With ambitious growth goals, they needed to develop leaders at all levels who could drive and sustain change.
"We're three and a half years into our five-year strategic plan," said Lynn Spence, Chief People Officer at T&M Associates. "We need to reorganize our entire structure. With that comes a lot of opportunities for our staff in terms of different roles and leadership opportunities—but it's change. People are hesitant about change."
Supporting Multiple Development Paths
T&M sought a coaching partner who could support leaders at different levels inside the organization, including
Newly appointed leaders: increasing self-awareness and ability to influence while moving up in the organization
Future leaders: accelerating professional growth for high-potential employees
Role-changers: helping technical independent contributors become adaptable team leaders
"I've worked with coaching firms before where there's maybe one or two coaches, and they want to work with all of your individuals or team. I haven't had a great experience with that. I like the diversity of options for coaching that Collectively aligns with our employees,” said Lynn.
Balancing Individual Confidentiality with Organizational Needs
A key differentiator for Collectively was their ability to balance organizational insight with individual confidentiality.
"As an organization, we're paying for the coaching, so we want to know everything," explained Lynn. "But at the same time, Collectively really respects the individual who's in the coaching process and the confidentiality needed to get the best outcome."
"I really like Collectively's assessment and review approach," said Lynn. "We get updates throughout the process, including feedback from the individual about how they feel the coaching is going. You get a sense on both ends while maintaining trust."
Creating Sustainable Change
T&M recognizes that real development takes time. "When we started working with Collectively, we talked about how it takes at least six months to start to see behavioral change," reflected Lynn. "It's not like you have this magic toolkit or trick that's going to make changes stick.”
This long-term view aligns with T&M's broader transformation goals.
“I don't think you need a title to be a leader,” said Lynn. “We want to provide opportunities for development and growth from the most entry-level to the most senior in the organization. It benefits the individual and the company. Collectively has been a real partner in achieving that.”