I have been working with executives, senior leaders and high potential individuals for most of my career. My approach to recruiting focuses strongly on the individual, what they have accomplished, what they are prepared to do and where they want take their career. I then make certain this matches the specific role within the organization. Coaching became a natural extension of my recruiting. As a coach, I work with individuals to help them better understand the direction they want to take their careers, determine how to best use the assets they have, recognize and eliminate what they view as obstacles and help them move forward. My years of leadership success in both large and small organization provide the practical knowledge and experience that supports the process. I received my International Coach Federation A.C.C. Credential in 2013.
Coaching Approach
I work one-on-one with individuals. It may be initiated by an organization or by the individuals themselves. Commitment and participation of the person being coached ensures a successful coaching relationship. My approach is to help clients identify and understand what is important, using a combination of assessments and dialogue to define strengths and add clarity to their aspirations. Then a plan is created, with benchmarks established. The overall process is based upon trust, personal “connection,” openness, the use of psychometric tools and my ability to listen and encourage. My “people focus,” enables me to support my clients as they initially gain awareness, then move through the coaching process. Clients are able to define and take actions which enable them to attain their potential.
Clients
Typical clients are high-performing individuals who are committed to attain success as they define it. They may also be individuals who have found their career not progressing at the desired rate. Usually these are senior or middle level executives who acknowledge the increasingly complex business environment and are committed to continuous learning and positive change.
Testimonials
Coaching is a highly personal, confidential process. However, with permission I share a remarks I have received from people I have who have chosen to work with me:
- “In the end I was completely comfortable that when given choices, I was properly prepared to make the ‘right’ choice and not just ‘a’ choice. This was a tremendous experience for me.”
- “During difficult times like this, most of us just want someone to tell us the answer, and I did too. Larry on the other hand took the time and patience to lead me through the process by asking me questions, exploring concepts and ideas and guiding me toward a resolution.”
- “Larry’s coaching style is one carried out with the upmost professionalism and empathy for his clients. He challenged me in a constructive way to develop my next phase, my next career, looking to balance what really makes me tick as a professional with my personal aspirations.”
- “Not only has this experience helped me learn from my past experiences and helped to propel me forward in a positive way, but it has helped me grow personally as well. At home and at work, I am a more successful, happier and healthier person and employee then I was prior to working with Larry. The experience was exceptional and pivotal for me and I am very thankful to have had the opportunity to work with him.”
Credentials
I am the founder of Shoemaker & Associates/Cornerstone Atlanta and President of Cornerstone International Group. I have more than 25 years of experience, much of it working in or with global businesses. I also have experience with smaller, entrepreneurially-owned organizations. I am a Professional Certified Assessment Trainer by Human Capital International and serve as an Advisor to this organization. I hold the ICF ACC Credential. My formal education includes a Bachelor of Science in Statistics from the University of Tennessee and a MBA from Georgia State University.