Client Success Story: Navigating Leadership Transitions with Confidence

How Coaching Helped a Senior Leader Build Influence, Trust, and Strategic Confidence

When Naomi Swenson transitioned from leading teams in Europe to an executive leadership role in the U.S., she faced a unique set of challenges. Beyond adapting to a new business landscape, she needed to establish credibility in an unfamiliar environment, build influence quickly, and navigate cultural nuances in leadership. Through executive coaching with StartWise, Naomi found a transformative approach to leadership that reshaped her career trajectory.

The Challenge: Establishing Leadership in a New Market

Naomi had already built a strong career leading account management and customer success teams across Europe. However, moving into a leadership role in the U.S. required her to prove herself in a completely new cultural and corporate environment.

• She needed to quickly build trust with her executive peers and team in a business culture that operated differently from what she was accustomed to.
• She had to develop her personal brand within the organization while balancing executive presence with authenticity.
• As a female leader in a high-profile role, she wanted to navigate leadership dynamics strategically while ensuring her voice was heard at the executive level.

“You helped me think differently about how I built relationships, earned trust, and positioned myself as a leader. That shift was invaluable.”

The Solution: A Coaching Approach That Blends Strategy and Authenticity

Partnering with Sara Gupta, founder of StartWise, Naomi worked through a highly tailored coaching program designed to help her build influence, navigate corporate culture, and elevate her executive leadership approach.

Key coaching areas included:

• Strategic Influence & Leadership Presence: Naomi learned how to position herself as a high-impact leader while staying true to her leadership style.
• Navigating Cultural Differences: Having spent much of her career working across both Europe and the U.S., Sara helped Naomi adapt her communication and leadership style to fit the expectations of her new environment.
• Building Relationships & Trust: Coaching helped Naomi establish strong connections with executive peers and key stakeholders, which became essential for her success in the new role.

“Early in my leadership career, I thought I had to go in looking strong. But what I’ve learned through coaching is that vulnerability, listening, and building trust are what actually make you a strong leader.”

The Results: A Leadership Breakthrough

Through coaching, Naomi experienced significant growth in how she approached leadership, built relationships, and positioned herself for long-term success. Key outcomes included:

• Stronger Executive Influence: Naomi refined how she engaged with senior leaders, allowing her to gain buy-in and establish credibility faster.
• Elevated Strategic Thinking: Instead of simply reacting to challenges, she learned to anticipate obstacles, think proactively, and lead with confidence.
• Greater Self-Trust & Leadership Impact: Naomi no longer felt the need to over-prove herself. Instead, she focused on making thoughtful decisions and showing up authentically in her role.

“I used to believe my work alone would be enough to build my reputation, but coaching helped me understand the critical role relationships and trust play in leadership success.”

Lessons from Naomi’s Journey: Why Executive Coaching Matters

Naomi’s transformation is a testament to the power of executive coaching in times of professional transition. Many leaders assume that career growth is something they must navigate alone—but the truth is, leadership is not a solo endeavor.

“For some reason, when it comes to our careers, we see it as a solo endeavor—but it doesn’t make any sense. It’s one of the most high-pressure things we navigate in life, and trying to do it alone is isolating and limiting.”

Coaching provides the space for reflection, strategic thinking, and unbiased feedback—all of which are essential for thriving in executive roles.

“I still apply the lessons from our coaching to this day, and even in interviews, I find myself reflecting on the success we built together.”

Are You Ready to Lead with Greater Influence and Confidence?

If you’re stepping into a new leadership role, navigating an organizational transition, or looking to elevate your executive presence, StartWise can help. Book a consultation today to explore how coaching can unlock your full leadership potential.