How Leadership Coaching Transforms Professionals

Drew Turner
Oct 13
3 min read

Real leadership doesn’t disappear; it just gets crowded out by fear, overwork, and pressure to be someone you’re not. That’s what I discovered during my time at Tesla — and why I’m passionate about helping other women reclaim their own way of leading.

If you’re a woman manager or team lead who’s been labeled “too emotional,” “too intense,” or “not leadership material,” I get it. I’ve been there. And here’s what I want you to know: you can come back to yourself and lead powerfully without abandoning who you are.

Why Leadership Coaching Is a Game-Changer

When I first stepped into leadership at Williams-Sonoma, I felt like I was performing — trying to sound certain while second-guessing everything inside. Vulnerability felt risky; proving myself felt required.

Leadership coaching helped me stop performing and start leading. It gave me both practical tools and deep inner work to:

Build confidence in my natural style
Set boundaries without guilt
Communicate with clarity and calm
Make decisions without spiraling into overthinking
Protect my energy from burnout

It wasn’t about becoming someone else; it was about uncovering the leader I already was.

Eye-level view of a modern office meeting room with a single chair and a laptop — Professional leadership training environment

What Real Leadership Development Looks Like

Forget generic seminars and thick binders of buzzwords. The best leadership development is personal and practical — it meets you where you are and equips you to lead in your real, messy, high-pressure world.

Expect:

Tailored coaching that adapts to your needs
Skill-building that’s actionable, not abstract
Judgment-free space to explore your style
Tools to stay resilient and avoid burnout
Guidance for navigating tough workplace dynamics

At Tesla, I saw how strategy and emotional intelligence work best together. You don’t need to shut down your feelings to lead; you can harness them as a strength.

If you’re ready to stop shrinking and start leading authentically, leadership coaching can be the catalyst you need.

Close-up view of a notebook and pen on a desk with a cup of coffee — Tools used in professional leadership training

How much does a leadership coach cost?

Let’s get real about the price tag. Investing in yourself can feel like a big leap, especially when budgets are tight and time is scarce. But here’s the truth: the cost of not investing in your leadership growth is far higher.

Leadership coaching rates vary widely depending on experience, format, and length. Here’s a rough breakdown:

Group coaching programs: $500 - $2,000 for a multi-week course
One-on-one coaching sessions: $150 - $500 per hour
Executive coaching packages: $3,000 - $15,000+ for several months

Think of it this way: a few sessions can help you break through decision paralysis, reduce burnout, and reclaim your confidence. That’s not just a cost - it’s an investment in your career and well-being.

If you’re worried about the price, start small. Many coaches (myself included) offer free discovery calls or flexible options. The key is to find someone who gets your experience and can help you trust yourself again.

What Happens When You Trust Yourself Again?

Here’s the thing - your leadership isn’t broken. It’s been overshadowed by doubt and exhaustion. When you invest in leadership coaching, you start to peel back those layers.

You’ll notice:

More clarity in your decisions - no more second-guessing every move
Stronger boundaries - saying no without guilt or fear
Greater resilience - handling stress without burning out
Authentic connections - leading with empathy and strength
A renewed sense of purpose - leading because it feels right, not because you have to

At Williams-Sonoma, I saw firsthand how leaders who embraced their authentic selves inspired their teams to do the same. It’s contagious. When you lead with honesty and confidence, people follow.

High angle view of a single plant on a desk near a window with natural light — Symbol of growth and renewal in leadership

Your Next Step: Own Your Leadership Journey

If you’re tired of feeling like you’re performing leadership instead of embodying it, it’s time to take action. Leadership coaching isn’t a magic fix, but it’s a powerful tool to help you reclaim your voice and your power.

Ask yourself: