"My results have been exactly what I hoped would happen."

07.03.08

Today, I'd like to highlight the case of Michael Birt, who created a truly unique and fulfilling role for himself. Please read on to hear of his experience in our work together...

Michael P. Birt, Ph.D.; Executive Director, Pacific Health Summit; Director, Center for Health and Aging
The National Bureau of Asian Research

Q: Why did you choose to work with Lenora?
A: Lenora was recommended to me by Brian Walter, who I had met through the local chapter of the National Speakers Association. When I started thinking about developing my own business, I asked Brian for a coach recommendation. He was as emphatic as anyone I have ever met when he said, "I guarantee that Lenora Edwards will be a great person for you to meet. I guarantee it." I called Lenora, we met a few days later and, over coffee, she explained her process. She talked about how we would work together in a way that was tailored to fit exactly what I wanted and needed. As soon as I heard her describe the process, I knew that it was exactly what I wanted. I called her the next day and said let's move ahead.

Q: What was it like working with Lenora?
A: When we began working together, I was really ready to do something. I wasn't quite sure what it was, but I absolutely knew that I didn't want to spend a lot of time in an indirect process. Our work together is direct and always problem-focused. When I'm looking to tackle a problem or plan something new, I know that I can work with Lenora to pinpoint exactly what I need to do and develop a plan...and then it's up to me to implement the plan. I love the energy and the intensity of that focus.

Q: What are Lenora's qualifications?
A: Lenora is uniquely qualified to do this work because of her varied life experiences and her own business success. I didn't decide to work with her based on a credential or title. What convinced me to pick up the phone initially was the recommendation from someone I respected, but what convinced me to hire Lenora was my belief that she really knew what she was talking about. Once I started working with Lenora, I quickly realized that she is a capable professional with success as her foundation and that's what I wanted. She's sharp, dependable and very responsible. And she delivers results.

Q: What else does she bring to the table?

A: Lenora is very perceptive and a good listener. Because of her varied perspectives, she helped me see the trends and issues that affect me personally but also to see opportunity from a larger viewpoint. It helped me to recognize that some of my issues were also shared by other entrepreneurs. Ideas that worked for them could work for me as well. She used examples and insights from her own life that made our professional relationship all the richer for it. Her approach is a step-by-step process and she paces it well by not going too fast or, if you're in a hurry and can keep up, not going too slowly.

Q: How have you benefited by working with Lenora?
A: I have a clear sense of who I am and what my strengths are so I can focus my energy more effectively. And, as my staff has grown in numbers, I think I've become a better manager as well. I've always had the ambition, but Lenora's process and support has given me the means to realize those ambitions in a steady and dependable manner. My results have been exactly what I hoped would happen. And it's not the end. I continue to work with Lenora as new ideas and opportunities come my way. And out of this great professional relationship has come a great friend--for me and my wife. You can't do better than that!