DIALOG DESIGN Case Study
Closing the Gap: Dialog Design’s Professional Development Challenge
Who is Dialog Design?
Dialog Design is an award-winning, multidisciplinary architecture, planning, and engineering partnership recognized for its innovative solutions. Focused on fostering creativity and collaboration, Dialog transforms spaces and communities through its visionary approach.
What Was the Challenge?
Despite offering structured executive coaching for Partners, Dialog identified a gap in its professional development strategy: Associates were not fully utilizing their professional development allowances. This was largely due to the absence of a tailored program addressing their unique needs. To bridge this gap, Dialog engaged my firm to create a customized coaching solution designed to empower their Associates within existing budgets.
Customized Coaching Program: Tailored for Success
Let’s dive into how the program was structured to deliver these results…
The 5-week coaching program was carefully designed to combine one-on-one and group coaching sessions. It incorporated optional self-awareness tools such as Belbin Team Roles and CliftonStrengths assessments, equipping Associates with clarity, actionable strategies, and deeper personal insights.
Program Structure: A Thoughtful Design for Lasting Impact
Lunch & Learn Discovery Session
A kickoff session to introduce the program, spark engagement, and establish a shared foundation for growth.Pre-Coaching Surveys
Participants identified personal and professional challenges through detailed surveys, enabling tailored coaching strategies.Group Coaching Sessions
Three 90-minute, coach-led sessions fostered collaboration, shared learning, and dynamic discussions specific to Associates’ needs.Participant-Driven Forum
A 90-minute interactive session encouraged Associates to lead discussions, exchange ideas, and deepen connections.One-on-One Coaching
Each Associate received two hours of individualized coaching to address unique goals and challenges.Self-Awareness Tools
Optional assessments offered insights into individual strengths and team dynamics.Comprehensive Follow-Up
Actionable feedback and summaries reinforced learning and encouraged continued growth.Interactive Coaching Portal
Online modules with resources, session recordings, and reflective activities supported ongoing development.Flexible Design
Open enrollment ensured future Associates could easily participate, promoting sustainability.
This comprehensive structure supported professional growth and fostered collaboration and engagement, laying the groundwork for sustained individual and leadership development.
Impact: Unlocking Potential and Building Connections
The program had transformative results, empowering Associates to thrive both personally and professionally. Highlights included:
Key Takeaways:
Actionable Growth Plans
Associates developed concrete plans for personal and professional advancement, gaining clarity on their goals and next steps.Reflection Skills
Participants honed the ability to reflect thoughtfully on work and life, building resilience and self-awareness.Authenticity in Professional Identity
The program encouraged greater authenticity and vulnerability, enabling Associates to bring their true selves to their work.Strengthened Connections
Deeper relationships with colleagues fostered an environment of trust and mutual support, enhancing teamwork and morale.Reframing Development Goals
Associates learned to prioritize and approach their personal development with renewed purpose and focus.
The program’s holistic impact extended beyond individual growth, creating lasting positive changes within the organization’s culture and team dynamics.
Participant Feedback
“Ken’s coaching helped us explore strengths, leverage them effectively, and support each other as future partners. The group sessions were insightful, fun, and collaborative.”
“Ken’s approach turned ideas into actionable strategies. His curiosity and insights motivated me to align my passions with professional goals.”
“Ken was attentive, supportive, and fully committed to helping me develop both personally and professionally. Our conversations were thought-provoking, expansive, and filled with insightful suggestions. He also facilitated valuable mentorship connections within my profession. I highly recommend working with Ken!”
“Ken’s coaching solutions exceeded our expectations, aligning seamlessly with our firm’s unique needs. His organized approach made participation easy despite demanding schedules, achieving remarkable progress in just five weeks. While the coaching portal provided helpful resources, the true value came from the transformative experiences in our sessions.”
Lasting Lessons for Growth
Dialog Design’s investment in their Associates’ professional development revealed the untapped potential within their younger leaders. The tailored coaching program bridged the gap, delivering long-term value and a renewed sense of engagement among participants.
Ready to empower your leaders?
Contact Kenneth Cappie to learn more about crafting a custom coaching program for your organization.
