Susan Sadler: Redefining Leadership and Coaching

Research has shown that exceptional coaches possess expert knowledge and experience, as well as excellent communication and interpersonal skills that enable them to connect with clients and assist them in achieving their goals. Susan Sadler embodies these traits, having started her career in advertising before transitioning into corporate training and eventually founding her own coaching firm.  

Susan is an accomplished global coach, seasoned consultant, and trainer with a wealth of experience. Her journey started straight out of college, where she worked in advertising, spending many years on the ad agency side. Eventually, with a young family, she decided to leverage her strengths in communications and client-facing roles, got a certification in Adult Learning, and moved into corporate training.  

Achieving Success and Balance  

Susan initially enjoyed the structure and camaraderie of corporate life, having had some exceptional colleagues and managers who served as her coaches and mentors. However, as a mother of twin boys, she sought more freedom and autonomy in her work, prompting her decision to leave the corporate world and establish her small consultancy. She primarily handled project work from former clients or connections at well-known companies such as Disney and Discovery Channel, leading to many other rewarding engagements. This shift allowed Susan to achieve the balance she valued between rewarding work and time with family.   

During her time teaching a course on Developmental Coaching, Susan developed a particular interest in the facilitative approach and the unfolding of coaching conversations. This interest motivated her to pursue coach training and obtain an International Coaching Federation (ICF) coaching credential, reflecting her dedication to continuing education and professional development within the coaching industry. Driven by an insatiable desire for growth in her profession, Susan found coaching to be the perfect fit for her.   

Empowering Growth and Development  

She founded Sadler Communications LLC, a professional coaching firm that offers a wide range of services. The firm primarily focuses on 1:1 coaching, but also offers workshops such as behavioral assessments like DISC, Power Presentations, Personal Style Coaching Inventory (PCSI®), and The Coaching Clinic ('coach the coach'). The individual coaching packages are tailored to the goals and needs of each client and include one assessment/profiler and debrief. For corporate clients, the firm offers one-on-one coaching, including facilitated three-way conversations with the coachee's manager or director to gain alignment, support, and feedback from the organization on the coaching goals.   

Sadler Communications also offers workshops like Power Presentations for clients who do not have time for lengthy programs but want to improve their presentation skills. In addition, the firm provides assessments such as the Personal Coaching Style Inventory (PCSI©) and Extended DISC to help individuals better understand their behavioral preferences in various situations. Finally, The Coaching Clinic ® is a two-day interactive and experiential workshop for executives, managers, HR professionals, and leaders to learn crucial coaching skills and competencies, with a proven track record of producing major shifts in corporate culture by raising standards and competencies.  

Empowering Leadership Growth Through Self-Discovery  

Susan's approach to coaching combines her diverse background in advertising, corporate training, and international experience, making her stand out from other coaches in the market. She believes in creating a connection and rapport between the client and coach, fostering an environment that is supportive and not judgmental. Susan stresses the importance of self-reflection and discovery in leadership growth. Her goal is to inspire clients to stretch professionally, encouraging them to move beyond their comfort zones while enjoying the process of self-discovery. Through self-discovery, Susan believes that leaders can facilitate their growth by reflecting on their values, beliefs, and behaviors to become more effective in their roles.  

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs  

Susan believes that being an entrepreneur is not for the faint of heart, but the rewards can be life-changing. However, she also acknowledges that there are persistent issues surrounding women leaders in various industries. She advises women to take charge of their leadership journey by defining their vision of success and professional goals. She also emphasizes the importance of gaining visibility and success based on merit-based achievements and the development of one's character. Susan encourages aspiring women entrepreneurs to connect with other like-minded people, get a mentor if possible, and take the leap, trying new things and taking on new challenges. As Susan said, "Try it on. You just might be surprised!"  

Susan's journey to entrepreneurship was not without its challenges, but her perseverance and dedication have paid off. She is passionate about facilitating leadership growth through self-discovery and encourages women to stand up and take ownership of their careers. For aspiring entrepreneurs, her advice is to connect with others, get a mentor, and go for it.