CLIENT STORY:
From Corporate America to Caterer

Meet Jennifer Hayden,
Independent Caterer:

Q: Why did you hire a coach? What did you want to see happen in your life at that time?

A: I was feeling stuck. My thoughts and goals felt cluttered with mixed motives and emotions. I knew I could do more and be more, but did not know quite where to begin.

My main goals were to:

• Get unstuck.
• Gain clarity about my career.
• Find a way to create more time for my new baby.

Q: How did you hear about Kristin and why did you hire her specifically?

A: I found Kristin via iVillage.com, where she's the resident Career Coach Expert. Kristin's style and presentation is both professional and exciting...I could tell immediately that she was real! I was drawn to her Web site because it was welcoming and creative...unlike most of corporate America. I first signed up for the Thought of the Day (that I still get everyday and love), then a few E-courses...and I was hooked. I received coaching from Kristin via her free newsletters, E-courses, and eventually phone coaching.

Q: What are the tangible results of your coaching experience?

A: I moved out of corporate America and started my own small catering business. I love my new life. As a new mom, much of my time and attention is now devoted to our nine-month baby...but I love having a life and career that can accommodate my family and my dream.

Q: What are the intangible results of your coaching experience?

A: The peace of mind is amazing, as is the energy when I sit down to plan a menu. Plus the absence of dreading going to work everyday (then the restlessness I felt when I got there) is incredible. A weight has been lifted off of my shoulders. It is so nice to know (and to have proven to myself) that if I am clear about what I want, I can get it.

It's difficult to pinpoint coaching with just a few words...it is practical, exhilerating, it promotes freedom and balance. It's among the best things I have ever done for myself. I still have a lot to do and accomplish, but thanks to coaching, now there is a path.

Q: Why do you think coaching works and what are Kristin's strength as a coach?

A: The coaching worked for me because Kristin is an unbiased advocate. Her main motivation in the relationship is to see her client succeed. Kristin is professional, knowledgeable, down to earth, and has incredible vision. Kristin is patient yet persistent. She has the unique ability to promote balance...all while promoting an abundant and idea life.

Q: Was there anything particularly meaningful or memorable about your coaching experience?

A: I continue to be impressed with Kristin's professionalism and expertise, but I think the most meaningful part of the coaching process was feeling like I was talking to a good friend. I looked forward to the coaching session so much that it made me want to reach my goals. I still "replay" many of our conversations in my head as I approach new challenges and goals.

Coach's Comments

Jennifer combined two coaching formats to get the results she wanted. Initially, as an E-course client (12 Weeks to an Amazing Life) Jennifer focused on making sure her foundation was rock solid. Through my program, she eliminated energy drains, identified healthy sources of energy (cooking and entertaining was identified), and strengthened herself overall. The process of self reflection led her to the next step--career transition via phone coaching.

I remember listening to Jennifer talk about one of her energy sources. Cooking and entertaining always put her in a good mood, while her corporate job seemed to drain her. However, I'm not sure she realized she could actually design a business around something that was so effortless and easy for her to do. As a coach, my job is to help people design their lives and careers around healthy energy sources. Your work needs to fuel you, not drain you. Remember that!

It was obvious we tapped into Jennifer's passion. Yet she still wasn't sure if it was possible to leave her safe corporate job and take the leap into the unknown. "Look for evidence," I suggested. Jennifer's assignment was to find other people doing what she wanted to do...and she did. This helped her realize it was very possible to start her own catering business and earn a living engaged in her passion.

Now Jennifer enjoys a flexible schedule and the freedom to do work she loves while serving her ideal clients. (Another coaching exercise: Make a list of the qualities of your ideal client and you'll soon begin attracting them!) Jennifer's investment in coaching will continue yielding incredible results and has already shaped the life of her new baby--more time with Mom!

Click HERE for next client story