Leaders are challenged daily to rise above the demands of operating a nonprofit and keep their eyes on the mission—yet efficient operations are essential to the nonprofit's providing services. Managing this balance between the visionary and the practical is complex work for even the most seasoned executives; it can be particularly daunting for those new to leadership positions or for leaders new to the nonprofit sector.

Individuals advance in their careers based on their goals, values, and opportunities. Assessing ones present situation requires analysis; preparing for next steps relies on planning. Clients say that candid feedback from neutral professionals enhances their confidence.

Oliver Tessier and Associates works with clients to assess their needs and to provide guidance—at an appropriate pace—toward understanding challenges and taking the steps to manage or overcome them. CEOs and other senior staff members report performance gains based improved focus, commitment, and confidence as a result of these professional relationships.

Team coaching

Teams—from operating groups to board committees—have special needs. In the ideal situation, Oliver Tessier and Associates is invited to help a team define its structure, behavioral norms, and responsibilities. More often, we are brought in to work with an existing team, helping them define and practice productive behavior. Each part is critical to success.

How we work

Oliver Tessier and Associates establishes confidential professional relationships with clients to hear their concerns, assess their needs, and provide expert guidance on issues of leadership, professional development, organizational culture, and career management.

Clients often ask us to create benchmarks by gathering feedback through solo interviews or focus groups. Those interviews are designed to identify trends and suggestions without attributing any statement to a specific participant. In many cases we work solely with the individual, some of whom prefer that no one know they are being coached. We commit to confidentiality as part of our contract.

Our strategy is to collaborate with the client to assess the present, identify needs and opportunities, develop goals and plans to achieve them, and measure progress. Our role is to provide ideas, practical advice, and ongoing support.

Most clients schedule coaching on a weekly basis. That is the ideal frequency; however, we are willing to be flexible. Some coaching is limited to a fixed number of sessions, while other clients choose an ongoing coaching relationship to continue professional development.

More Information

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