Deciding to move to a new role and company can take a lot of soul-searching. When I knew I was ready to move to a larger organisation and team, I had a list of must-haves. I knew I wanted the not-for-profit sector, and I was determined to work with smaller/start-up organisations, and with students and graduates. In late 2006, when I was applying, there were only a handful of graduate recruiters in the Midlands, and I’d promised myself I wouldn’t leave where I was just to “jump ship” to another commercial recruiter. That was the beginning of the history of The Balance Collective.
When I speak to new clients, one of the questions they ask is “why coaching” and “why parents”? I thought today it would be useful to take a little journey back in time and share some key elements that have led me to where I am now. Over a decade as The Balance Collective, but continuing to help people create a career to enjoy, not endure.
When I graduated with my Psychology degree in 2000, I knew my values and my deal breakers, and I was going to stick to them. What I didn’t expect was how they would shift and change based on the stages of my life.
When I was ready to take the next step in my career, as a new mother, I found what I wanted and needed at the time and took my first career leap of faith. Leaving a permanent job for an 11 ½ month contract! But I was ready for something different.
I started the role the week of my eldest’s first birthday; not only was I establishing myself in a new job, but I was also only half a year into understanding who I was as a working parent. In just over six months, I’d become a parent, returned to work and then started a brand new job. It felt overwhelming, hopeful and a little rudderless. All at the same time!
It’s where the seeds of The Balance Collective began.
Now, twenty years on, I have become the person I needed right then. A qualified coach who works with parents supporting their return to work, career changes and balance needs.
When I was talking about this recently, I was asked about my first coaching client. Now, usually, confidentiality is a must-do for me. But today, I can share that name
You see, my first client was me!
When you start on a coaching qualification, you have peer coaches that you work with. People on the same coaching journey as you are. It can take time to build rapport and trust. To really open up to the other person.
However, the reality is that you have already started doing the work before you get paired up. The tools and techniques of self-reflection really begin at home!
Whilst I’d been coached before, on my return to work after my last daughter, this was the first time I was able to unapologetically be open about my fears and goals; I was able to understand what I needed next for my career.
When redundancy was announced, it became a “now or never” moment. And the coaching had enabled me to plan and take clear action. So, when I tell you I KNOW the power of coaching, it’s not just the hundreds of coaching hours I have under my belt. It’s the fact that I am a living, breathing case study!
This enormous life change at 36. The Balance Collective moved from a side hustle to my only job.
With a nine-year-old, a three-year-old, a mortgage and a leap of faith, I decided to start my own coaching practice. Some might call it a change of careers; I just knew I had a wish to balance my career ambitions with my new life perspective.
When I say I can help you create a career to enjoy, it’s more than a service. I’ve been there, got the T-shirt.
My clients are parents questioning “what next” for their careers. I work with you to support you in uncovering your skills, values and re-finding your voice.
They are Mums and Dads seeking a better balance, more confidence and, finally, a career they can enjoy! Is it your time?
I’m Clara Wilcox, the affordable coach who helps parents enjoy their careers again. Return to work, career & redundancy coaching for individuals, freelancers, businesses and parents & carer groups. Email hello@thebalancecollective.co.uk or schedule a call to discuss coaching or career wellbeing workshops.
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Let me reintroduce myself – you Career and Return to Work Coach, Clara Wilcox
Clara Wilcox is a straight talking, practical and experienced coach helping clients navigate the tricky waters of returning to work, career changes and professional development. The Balance Collective is a social enterprise focused on improving the lives of parents, by working together to build inner confidence and promote a healthy work/life balance.
