At Nova, we work towards revolutionizing the talent industry by empowering and guiding talent into becoming the best version of themselves personally and professionally. With that in mind, we have created the Talent Agent figure, which guides and helps Novas in their professional challenges. But, what happens when talent needs more holistic guidance that touches other areas of their lives? We usually tend to refer those talent to a Nova-exclusive Executive Coach.
In this article co-written by Sally Fazakerley, International Business Coah, and Talent Agent Maja Shapiro, we explore what a Talent Agent and a Business Coach are, the scope of their work, and when is the right time for a Nova (or for practically anyone) to have an Executive Coach to guide them.
What is a Talent Agent?
A Talent Agent is a dedicated team member who works proactively to advise, find, and match Nova members with relevant opportunities for their professional and personal development. Whether that be a new job opportunity, a course in statistics, salary negotiation advice, or connecting them with a Mentor, a Talent Agent is a ball-plank helping members throughout their growth, making sure they are continuously making choices that enable their potential to have an impact in society and their lives.
Why should I have a Talent Agent?
Technology and community only go so far when it comes to enabling the potential of our members. A Talent Agent invests in our members to make sure they are provided with all the tools needed to excel and make impactful decisions throughout their careers. Building a long-term holistic relationship with our members is at the same time the key for us to understand their ever-changing needs, and make sure Nova can adapt so as to become relevant and valuable throughout time.
Talent Agents work with Nova members through a Talent Agent call, but what is a Talent Agent call?
A Talent Agent call is a 1-on-1 conversation between a Talent Agent and Nova member. Depending on the current phase in the life of the members, this is an opportunity for the Talent Agent to listen and see where synergies can be found between needs and the value proposition Nova provides. It is also an opportunity to clarify future goals, dreams, and ambitions.
How having a Talent Agent takes you a step forwards compared to the rest: this is the future of talent.
This is the future of talent as we believe when we invest in our talents through helping them articulate their goals and ambitions, finding the path to reaching them, and making sure they are given the support needed to realize them, it will have a ripple effect where our societies become more productive and led by talent.
Even though a Talent Agent may guide you towards becoming your better self professionally, sometimes talent may need an extra push from a mentor, coach, or psychologist to achieve their goals. On many occasions, if the Talent Agent finds it suitable they may refer members to an executive coach. And, if you are wondering if it's time to have an executive coach, you’ll find the answer below.
What is an Executive Coach?
An Executive Coach is a qualified professional who works with people (from high-potential employees to entrepreneurs, and CEOs) to help them gain self-awareness, clarify goals, achieve their objectives, unlock their potential, and act as a partner in their growth.
How do I know if it is time for me to work with an Executive Coach?
Everyone could use a coach, however, here are some common reasons someone starts executive coaching:
- I want to have more direction with my goals.
- I want to learn more about myself.
- I am in a career transition (or I want to change careers).
- I am overwhelmed and I have no work-life balance.
- I feel stuck and want a push forward professionally.
- What satisfied me in the past at work no longer does.
- My job has become more demanding, and I want to step up to the plate.
- I am a new leader and I want to develop my leadership style.
I am a top talent (and I have already talked with my Talent Agent on previous occasions), am I ready for executive coaching?
Ask yourself these questions to see if it is the right moment for you to get started:
- Are you ready to challenge your current thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and actions to get what you want in life?
- Are you willing to do what it takes to get your goals?
- Are you flexible and curious?
- Are you open to learning, growth, and change?
If I start executive coaching today, how do I get the most out of it?
Here are some tips on how to take full advantage of your sessions:
- You can come to a coach with a problem to solve, to gain awareness of yourself, or because you want support getting to the next level in your career. Which one is true for you?
- You get from coaching what you put into it. You are 100% in charge of your own life so, take complete ownership of it and do the work.
- Feel free to ask your coach some initial questions at the start of your session with them. However, the best way to learn ‘what coaching is’ is to give it a try!
- When making sure the coach is the right fit for you, go with your gut. If you trust them, choose them.
- Set expectations early on with your coach. What do you expect from them? Do you want to be challenged? Held accountable? Supported? Listened to?
If you are still unsure, sign up for a free discovery call today. Novas get up to a 28% discount on executive coaching sessions. This makes sure that Novas have the best price in the market for coaching.
Sally Fazakerley is an executive coach (and proud Nova) with 15 years of experience in developing international professionals to get the most out of their careers by finding fulfilment, reaching their goals, and getting unstuck.
