Lucia Hindorff, PhD, is a scientist and executive team coach. She has had 15 years of federal government experience with research and training programs across the country. Coaching since 2019, Lucia trained as a Team Coach through ACT/Brown School of Professional Studies in 2022.
Read Lucia’s story, what led her to Team Coaching, why she chose the ACT/ Brown program. You can also listen to Lucia telling her story in the recent webinar by clicking here
Please tell us a little about your coaching journey prior to starting the Team Coaching program?
I started my coaching journey several years ago as a coachee who was assuming a larger responsibility at work without much time to prepare. The opportunity to reflect, be challenged, and take action was empowering and supportive. As I looked for professional development opportunities, I kept being drawn to the unique skills that coaches bring and develop in others. I participated in a coaching co-op where I got to practice coaching skills, which led to developing an internal coaching pilot with a work colleague. As part of this pilot, I trained in executive coaching and began to support scientists and clinicians at my organization.
Why did you decide to embark on the Team Coaching program?
During the COVID-19 pandemic, I recognized the importance of building resilient teams, especially when they are distributed across the country. I became motivated to learn about team coaching and the ways in which I could develop and empower mission-driven teams.
Why did you choose the ACT & Brown Team Coaching program?
I was ready to extend my executive coaching skills to a team setting, and the program seemed like a good balance of in-person and virtual instruction. The instructors have a history of coach training and it was exciting that they were one of the first to receive accreditation for teach coaching. I also liked that they had a module on diversity and inclusion.
What was your overall experience of the Team Coaching program and what has been the most rewarding part of Team Coaching so far?
I had a wonderful time in the program. It challenged me to develop my range as a coach, and the skills were complementary to my executive coaching training. My favorite part was working with a wonderful colleague and co-coach on our field exercise. To see the need for team coaching and watch the team develop skills in real time, even for a short engagement, was very motivating. Staying in contact with my classmates has been a plus as well and we continue to serve as a network with each other.
Tell us about the work you do now and how you are applying your Team Coaching skills?
I have a “day job” as a scientist, so the team coaching is currently being integrated into the internal coaching offerings at my organization. The skills I learned have been very useful in team or group settings where the team dynamic is off, or the group just needs a little more focus. Who doesn’t love that moment when asking a powerful question or reframing a challenge turns the group back around?
About ACT
A Leadership and Performance Coaching company focused on developing exceptional leaders, helping leaders become Aware of their impact so they can make better Choices leading to Transformative results.
Our commitment to transformative learning, innovation and diverse thinking, and making an impact in the world is at the core of what we do. We are a family-owned, service-driven company who partners with the Brown University School of Professional Studies, organizations and government agencies to deliver our life changing programs.
ACT, in partnership with Brown University School of Professional Studies, an international leader in executive education, is excited to offer ACT’s ICF accredited Leadership and Performance Coaching Certification Program. ACT shares Brown University’s mission to develop reflective leaders, to effect change in the world, and to improve human welfare. https://actleader.com/
Read other articles
- Transactional to Transformational: The Power of Championing in Leadership Coaching
- My Team Coaching Journey with Lucia Hindorff
- The Importance of a Professional Certification in Coaching: Top 5 Reasons (plus a Bonus Insight)
- My Coaching Journey with Meredith Sadoulet
- My Coaching Journey with Rodric Lenhart
