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Dr Chris Gifford

Career Development Coach

Hebden Bridge, United Kingdom

'When work is no longer working..'

I coach people through the career transitions that shape our working lives. Work is changing and we can easily find ourselves in jobs that no longer work for us but we struggle to see alternatives. The first step is to believe change is possible. I am a certified coach offering coaching for career development that validates and respects who you are now and who you want to become. In only six sessions we identify what you want to achieve and how to get there. Through questioning and feedback you will find purpose and clarity.

Before becoming a coach, I held a number of senior management positions at a UK university including Head of Department in Behavioural Sciences and strategic leadership roles in postgraduate programme development and international recruitment. At the same time I was engaged in the core academic duties of teaching and research in the areas of sociology and politics. I came to the conclusion that we live in cultures that do no always support our health and well being. When things are not going well, we are often led to believe there is something wrong with us.

Coaching showed me there was a different way, that supports and values the person without judgement. I coach for self-leadership, so we can make positive choices in line with our core values. In short, whatever we do we can be our own boss! Whether you are considering a complete change of career or to find new ways to grow within our existing role, you can take charge of your future. Interestingly, coached individuals often make better employees. Coaching can help if you are:

  • Feeling stuck or undervalued and considering a career change;
  • Wanting better work relationships and more job satisfaction;
  • Looking to improve your work/life balance and put down some boundaries;
  • Starting out on a new career and looking for direction;
  • Keen to develop as a leader but unsure you have what it takes.

 



Specialites
burn out career career transition coaching communication skills confidence goals leadership limiting beliefs productivity relationships stress management success team leaders
How can I help

I provide a caring and empathetic space where you are respected as the expert on your life. You will discover solutions and strategies that help you to grow and flourish. Using thought provoking questions, careful listening and helpful feedback, we co-create a positive and practical vision for your future.

  • Initially, we identify the changes you wish to make. We agree some positive outcomes that you would like to see happen by the end of our time together. What plans can we put in place now? What specific steps can you take?
  • We may explore context, the wider organisation and culture within which you work and how it can both allow and constrain you moving forward. Over what do you have power and control? If you have power how can you use it consciously?
  • We clarify your values and how they align with your job and employer. What is making you uncomfortable? What do you need to stop doing?
  • We may name and describe relationships and behaviours that are preventing you moving forward. What quick changes can you make to address them?
  • You will gain key insights into the opportunities in your everyday life.
  • We will build an authentic and honest relationship in which you provide me with feedback as we review your progress.

Although this may sound serious, infact it is often very enjoyable and enlightening to discover new ways of being in the world. Indeed, new ways of being you!

 

Work Experience and Accreditation

University Senior Leadership: Head of Department, Director of International Recruitment and Postgraduate Programs at University of Huddersfield, UK, 2017-2020

Head of Department of Behavioural Department at the University of Huddersfield, UK, 2011-2017

Institute of Leadership and Management Certificate in Coaching and Mentoring (level 5) 2020

Chartered Management Institute Certificate in Strategic Management & Leadership (level 7) 2019

Testimonials

Having Chris as my career coach was one of the best things that happened in 2020. He helped me to harness my strengths, enhance my self-efficacy and remain hopeful in the attainment of my career goals, which are being progressively achieved till date. Chris is a tactful and excellent professional coach. In sum, his approachable personality and coaching style are laudable

Ijeoma, PhD, Business Leadership Researcher

Chris is an excellent listener who positively challenges; in just 6 sessions my confidence was boosted, and development path clarified. As a result, I successfully applied for promotion and am much more positive about my future opportunities. I wouldn’t hesitate in working with Chris again and wholeheartedly recommend him.

Jo, Head of Skills Development, UK University

Unique code : 150.143.233.224 - 25/02/2022
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Career Development Coaching

£340
6 x 60 mins

I normally work over 6-8 sessions and I offer a complimentary 'rapport' session to see if I am the right coach for you.

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