Getting to know FlexCoach ​Debra Close

FlexCareers is passionate about supporting our employer partners and our community to be the best that they can be.  We offer a range of training and coaching services in areas such as career transition and outplacement, parental leave, return to work, managing flexibly, interview skills, leadership and management, positive psychology, and diversity & inclusion – to name a few.

In this series, we introduce you to our panel of FlexCoaches, each who offer a complimentary 30 minute chemistry session to our community.

1.Debra, tell us about your career history?

Never a dull moment! In 2013 I co-founded Flourishing Mothers, a boutique coaching consultancy whose mission is help mothers thrive at work and in life. My coaching has been informed by a long-standing corporate career in management and marketing across a diverse range of industries and organisations such as AMP, Novartis and the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.

2.What was your motivation to become a coach?

Easy….being a mother who wants flexible work! During corporate life I led people and teams, developing a passion for getting the best out of people through helping them enjoy their jobs. During this time, I had my two children and then completed post-graduate studies in coaching. The tools and skills I’ve learned have been of enormous benefit for my own life, and I am motivated to share these with other women and mums.

3.Do you have any particular areas of coaching expertise?

Yes, Mothers are my speciality and passion! In my private coaching practice I have developed programs tailored specifically to help mums thrive in both work and life, and cope with the inevitable challenges. Typical clients are mothers wishing to re-enter the workforce, or re-craft their jobs or careers to better suit their own changing needs or the needs of their family. I apply research and interventions from Positive Psychology and Coaching Psychology, which explore the experiences, characteristics and practices that enable individuals to pursue goals, flourish and excel.

4.What do you love most about coaching?

So much! I love to see women uncover their potential for an awesome life both at work and at home. This happens through gaining clarity around what’s important to them and why, and then how they can harness their natural strengths to be their “best flourishing selves” at work and home. Everyone can do this! I also enjoy the practical side of helping women find solutions to problems and provide frameworks for them to confidently move forward with decisions and goals. It warms my heart to see great outcomes in work achievements, balanced with high levels of overall wellbeing.

5.How do you define success?

It’s different for everyone, but for many people its feeling like you’re motivated and performing at your best at work, that your life feels authentic and gives you enjoyment and meaning, and you have good relationships at work and home. This is absolutely possible!

6.What is your vision for women in the workplace?

Women hold up half the sky. Employers need to acknowledge that positive cultures and high performing workplaces rely on women thriving not only at work, but also in their lives as a whole. This may mean more flexible work arrangements for mothers; however, these arrangements will be rewarded in spades from working mothers in their loyalty, efficiency and high levels of productivity. This will create a positive ripple effect on the culture of the entire organisation!

To connect with a FlexCoach and book a free chemistry session visitwww.flexcareers.com.au/flexcoach.