So how did I get to this despicable point? A fine, nice young man (look at that innocent smile) with hardly any pimples. Ready to serve but currently inert. Full of potential like a pimple begging to be burst.
It started in my last semester at Wharton when I was convinced I wanted to be a coach, more than 18 years ago. That last semester, I invested all my spare time researching coaching consultancies and what it took to make a career of helping others achieve their dreams. Alas, when it was time to make a decision, I was seduced by Satan and his empty promises in the form of JPMorgan whose signature bonus, I could not resist. So, I, Ngozi Pascal Dozie, of sound mind and body, crushed my dreams and proceeded to spend 18 months in penitentiary investment banking. To add insult to injury, JP Morgan, with nuance, humanity, and some finesse invited me to resign after 18 months of not great work product.
One thing I need to stress is that this is not a sales pitch for my coaching services. You all know that I'm a big lover of sharing my journey, and this is just another example. But just hypothetically, if this were a sales pitch, wouldn't you want a coach who had an MBA from Wharton and had worked at JPMorgan New York? And even my ignominious (always wanted to use the word) departure from JPMorgan is an added bonus. For like every great pastor who has trodden the path of evil and drunk from the cup of iniquity, I walked through the valley of the shadow of death and came out triumphant. Thus more credentials to my coaching skills.
But this is not a sales pitch.
Anyhow, like any good superhero narrative, my coaching special power was hidden for many years, until it was triggered last year by an amazing coach, who rekindled in me this desire to help others. Fast forward 6 months and I had registered to do a coaching certification at Teachers College of Columbia University.
Coming Out
Some of you are probably asking: “Ngozi why bother with a certification - aren’t you such an accomplished entrepreneur, having operated in multiple continents, sectors, and roles? Surely you more than anyone with your characteristic humility could jump into coaching others without any certification especially as you already have so much life experience?”
My dear sisters and brothers, this is such a great question especially as there are so many charlatans out there, professing to be coaches.
Three reasons exist but the main one is impostor syndrome. With age, the boldness and spirit that defined my younger years are diminishing. I've observed entrepreneurs with barely a year and a half of experience, who, after securing a $200k pre-seed extension, confidently adopt the title of Coach to other entrepreneurs. You might expect me to think, "If they can do it, why can't I?" But that's not the case. Alas the fountain of audacity from which I drank as a youth is now dry.
No 2 - When in doubt look to your loved ones but even there my confidence took a hit. I confided my hopes and dreams to an individual, someone I am very close to. She began helping me to research the market opportunity and sent the following with no commentary: ( I am not one to reveal names but I like to keep my receipts.)
Sorry, did I hear you say that you can hardly read the image? Oh, let me expand it for you.
There - is that better?
With this kind of ‘backing’ do you wonder why I have not been shouting from the rooftop that with a mere $200 you can get an hour of my time? Can you blame me for holding back? I know that many in my beloved country are converting into Naira but I say to you, my sweet child, please stop. You are bigger than that LOL.
En serio
In truth, the third reason gets to the crux of the matter. Coaching is a serious business and the vulnerability shown by clients seeking personal or professional improvement must be respected. I chose to enroll at Columbia to ensure that I would be able to help others with the same responsibility and respect as I have received. I have worked with some amazing coaches (all certified if I may add snootily), and I too am keen to master the dark arts of transforming people’s lives. In over 8 months at Columbia, I have learned that coaching in principle is simple but hard to execute; listen intently to the client, ask high-leverage questions, and trust that they are powerful and resourceful enough to make the desired change.
Then walk with them on their chosen journey.
Enough!! I got a bit serious there and the last thing I want you to think is that Columbia’s rigorous approach may confer on me any advantages over the 22-year-old who is pitching you now. That would be preposterous; why would an academically rigorous and evidence-based coaching framework be useful? I will forever be a staunch advocate of youth and urge those facing serious challenges to jump into their arms.
Despite facing impostor syndrome and various other challenges, both tangible and spiritual, I'm determined to move forward. If you have suggestions on expanding my client base, I'd appreciate your input. If you were wondering if you are a good fit, my ideal clients are founders, managers, and executives who possess an entrepreneurial spirit. They are individuals dedicated to continuous learning, exhibit professional humility, and are focused on creating meaningful products and services. I must stress that a coach is different from an advisor or a mentor; I am not trying to help people grow their businesses, provide consulting or cookie-cutter solutions. I am however available to help people think through issues be they problems, challenges or opportunities.
But as I have said repeatedly, I am not trying to win your business. So just share this link to book an intro call with someone who is looking for me 🙂 [and importantly is interested in becoming a paying client] and I will name my next child in the metaverse after you.
In parting, please say no to people trying to oversell themselves or their products. Subtlety is the order of the day.
Special thanks to Ade Obatoyinbo for introducing me to Coach M, who reignited my passion for coaching. I really would love to recommend Coach M to everyone because she's amazing, but then you might choose her over me!!
Congrats! Columbia's coaching program is excellent because it integrates adult learning and b-school curriculum. Adult learning is the best andragogy for facilitating transformation. Wishing you the best.