What is the highlight of your working week?
When people talk about culture and personality, they almost always consider them to be fun, ‘happy’ topics, defined by colours: “I’m a blue”. I enjoy helping individuals and teams to understand more about each other with complexity and nuance that encompasses the full gamut of our individual differences. The realisation of there being benefits to narcissism or psychopathy always gets a group talking.
If you weren’t doing this job, what would you like to do?
My work is all about setting the environment where you can be you. If I wasn’t doing this professionally, it’d still be a factor in any role I do. If I host a barbecue, it’s not about how great my food is; it’s about the music being right, your glass being topped up, the temperature being perfect. It’s about how can you be you.
What is one common misperception of your work?
That psychologists read people’s minds. (Confession: we might do a little bit of this!)
What is your favourite time of year – and why?
Late autumn. I love the fake sun we get in the UK. Bright, gloriously sunny days without a cloud in the sky – but it’s three degrees. There’s nothing better than getting all wrapped up in layers for a crisp walk to a country pub with a real fire.
If you had a superpower, what would it be and how would you use it?
I have a superpower. It’s invisibility – but it only seems to work when I’m waiting at a bar! There is an X-Man character called Lucas Bishop, who is able to recharge by absorbing energy. Coaching, speaking and facilitating are hugely energy-draining for me – and absolutely worth doing. So, to be able to do what I love then recharge myself like Bishop would be a real superpower.
How do you feel to be nominated for the Institute Advocate of the Year award?
It’s clearly an honour to be recognised two years in a row. But, for me, how could you not advocate for the Institute of Leadership? Its work in shaping leadership, making training accessible and championing our community makes advocating for the IoL a privilege.
The IOL Excellence Awards take place on 14 November at Hilton London Bankside. Read more about Institute Advocate of the Year finalists.
