Challenge:

Difficulty effectively communicating technical updates to the board partially due to non-native English-speaking background.
Communication issues with the primary manufacturer, causing tension and hindering collaboration.

Situation: The CTO faced challenges presenting to the board due to language barriers and sometimes providing answers to follow-up questions that hadn’t yet been fully nailed down. Their presentations sometimes resulted in confusion and concern from board members. Additionally, communication gaps arose between the CTO and the company's main manufacturer, which was overseas and where the native language was different than the CTO’s. The CEO hired Breakthrough to work with the CTO to close these gaps.

Coaching Approach:

Presentation Skills: Focused on tailoring the CTO’s presentations to the board's needs, utilizing clear visuals, concise language, and effective storytelling techniques.
Intercultural Communication: Provided guidance on communicating effectively with stakeholders from different cultures, considering the nuances of language and nonverbal cues.
Conflict Resolution: Equipped CTO with strategies to build rapport and navigate tough conversations with their manufacturing partner.

Outcome:

Following coaching, the CTO’s communication skills significantly improved. The board reported increased confidence in their leadership and understanding of their technical updates.
Their improved communication style fostered trust and collaboration with the manufacturing partner, leading to smoother business operations and enhanced efficiency, which will help the company meet its targets.
The client began our relationship as a VP, but after coaching was recommended by the CEO and approved by the board to be promoted to the company’s Chief Technology Officer, reflecting the positive impact of coaching.