A Practice Built Together

I lead a team of high achievers who are motivated and deliver great results. To be clear, there are no “duds” on my team. Yet there was tension that affected work trust. And after a year of being physically separated due to Covid, there was an urgency to addressing the issue. It was time to invest in our working dynamics. Impressed by Bob’s approach to leadership principles and his insight into team performance, I engaged him to administer the Kolbe Assessment and lead several workshops.

It’s easy to emotionalize or make up stories about teammates’ work styles, using labels like “disorganized” or “lazy.” With Bob’s guidance around the Kolbe framework, emotion and judgement is removed to uncover what’s really going on. We learned what gets each team member excited about their work. We now use a new taxonomy around individual strengths and what drains our energy. We now acknowledge that each of us see and need different things.

Bob created an environment of safety in our workshops. He really understands how to be a positive presence in a team dynamic. He adeptly led my team through the information in a way that everyone followed. No one work style preference was privileged over another. Bob gave so much more than expected. He delivered information that was turnkey, unlocking value for those listening. Bob showed us how to immediately put our learning into action.

I realize now there’s more than one standard on what a “good job” is and how each of us can enter a “zone of genius”. There is no one standard on how one shows up and approaches problems. By allowing people to lead with their strengths rather than their weaknesses, it enables everyone to feel empowered in their role. It’s a bit like petting a cat, going in the direction of how its fur grows rather than against it. It’s a better experience for everyone. Choosing who leads a project is now more fluid as we choose based on what the project needs and which work style is the best fit. When individuals lead from their zone of genius, we all win.

One of the most impactful deliverables Bob gave me as a leader was a comparative analysis around work styles. He summarized my work style in relation to each team member, as well as individual team members with each other. Very powerful. Clarity around similarities and contrasts, where you can come together to problem solve without conflict, is useful beyond measure. Bob delivered immense value and made a profound impact on how I lead.

— CEO, LeadersAtlas

Like many start-ups, our organization experienced growing pains. We tripled in size which caused friction in conversations about measuring progress, performance, and accountability. We engaged Bob to help us navigate those tough conversations and to provide a framework to address team growth and changing dynamics.

Bob was absolutely the right choice for us because he understands rapid-growth organizations and the need to put techniques into immediate practice. In our 1:1 sessions, we sifted through what was getting in our way and explored individual strengths. In our group sessions and off-sites, Bob facilitated an environment where we could share more freely. He was excellent at encouraging everyone to share their point of view but not indulging the discussion to veer off track. The Tilt Team Agility and Climate reports focused our group coaching conversations, and Bob’s consensus-building skills enabled us to come together as leaders with an action plan.

Now our conversations are better. We’re more effective in problem-solving and moving past disagreements. On a personal level, I found the Tilt Assessment particularly powerful. I’m able to recognize when I’m falling into a pattern of overusing a strength. That knowledge shapes the choices I make to communicate and lead differently.

— CEO, Heila Technologies

Bob was especially appealing as a trainer because he brought health and wellness education that was artfully integrated with his corporate world experience. He was phenomenal; his engaging presentation style received consistently high marks from participants.

— Program Manager, Ceridian LifeWorks

Bob is very passionate about wellness and it’s obvious he does not use a cookie-cutter approach. He designed a program that specifically met our unique needs. I appreciated his creativity and flexibility, especially as challenges arose. Bob’s presentation heightened employees’ awareness of wellness and its importance. It was a wise investment of training dollars to work with Bob.

— HR Director, Guide Dogs for the Blind

Bob is committed to helping groups and individuals recognize and embrace their instinctive abilities. I felt validated with regard to my natural preferences, specifically with how I do my work. Bob is truly invested in outcomes.

— HR Manager, Energy Foundation

Bob was part of our monthly wellness program; for the past three years, we’ve sponsored speakers on various wellness topics. I wouldn’t hesitate to have him back. Employees really enjoyed his material and distinctive point of view, using the Samurai model to illustrate strategies to improve health and wellbeing. You can tell he is passionate about the material. That was critical since we broadcast our presentations to offices across the country via Webcast. Bob has done an enormous amount of research that goes beyond fitness and nutrition.

We received very positive feedback from our employees, expressed by their high marks on our evaluation form. Many employees commented that it was the best presentation they’ve seen on wellness in several years. They also indicated taking away practical strategies, such as the grounding exercise, to immediately use in their daily lives.

Bob has a personal connection with the topic. You can tell that he really believes in the topic and practices what he preaches. He uses a unique approach that truly reinforces wellness. Bob is very believable and engaging because of that personal connection.

— HR Leader, Littler Mendelson

The Somatic work I did with Bob was incredibly powerful. How you show up, being comfortable and confident when advocating your point of view, is an important component of leadership. Together Bob and I examined my management style, especially as it related to influencing others. Bringing the physical element (using a martial art Jo) to leadership made quite an impact. Others now comment on how much they value my perspective and involvement in projects. I felt a definite shift, I no longer feel like an “imposter.” Bob helped me develop into a more powerful and balanced leader. As a result, more doors are opening for me. I now have more responsibility, I’ve earned the respect of contrarians, and I don’t shy away from crucial conversations.

Thank you, Bob. What an amazing and transforming experience.

— People Engineer, Meta

During our engagement, Bob covered all the needed areas. From strategic, changing my mindset to be even more supportive and selfless, to tactical, building team’s missions, drafting exec summaries, pitches, and even communication strategies for important meetings.

Bob’s familiarity with the Kolbe Index also let me understand my strengths and leverage them more. I personally had a great coaching experience with Bob.

— Engineering Manager, OculusVR

Bob Bates is an extraordinary coach and the perfect combination of supporting, connecting, and challenging. Bob gave me life-changing insights literally within minutes of our first meeting. Although his specialties are sales, marketing, and innovation, I would trust Bob to mentor anyone who has critical responsibilities and something to prove.

— CEO, Tilt Inc.

I chose Bob as my leadership coach for three reasons. First, he’s Tilt certified; our company uses the Tilt model as a way for individual contributors and leaders to support each other and work fearlessly. Using the elements from the Tilt framework, Bob and I were able to “unpack” a situation. By going deeper, I was able to coach my team more effectively.

Second, Bob has first-hand experience in managing the fast-paced and high-charged world of high-tech. From our first conversation, you could tell Bob quickly picked up on the challenges I faced and how to address them.

Third, Bob thinks fast on his feet. He provides direct and insightful feedback. Through his coaching, I’m clear on my purpose. Bob held up the mirror for me; he did it in a straightforward and supportive way that was very constructive. As a result, I’ve restructured pieces of my organization, so it’s aligned with my focus. In my conversations, I pause before saying “yes.” And when I do say “no,” it helps the other party understand why. More importantly, it helps us both move forward intentionally.

— VP Product & Tech Ops, Fortune 500 Company

I come from a service engineering and production background. Pushing my team to hit deadlines is second nature to me, probably because of my military background. While I consistently achieved stellar results, I routinely received feedback that I was “rough around the edges.” I knew things could be easier; that’s why I hired Bob. He gave me ideas on how to get to the same place, producing results, with less confrontation with more effectiveness and with empathy.

I found that the Tilt assessment was a particularly helpful construct in evaluating and managing my leadership style. Others absolutely noticed a huge change in my behaviors. Now my staff and I chuckle over my “cheat sheet”, a tool Bob and I created together. It’s a daily reminder of what’s important and how to motivate my staff. I’m certainly not a master, but I’m definitely headed in that direction.

— Senior Director Applecare, Apple

In my role the hours were grueling. It’s easy to overschedule and get overwhelmed. I wanted more work-life balance, manage my team more constructively, and communicate more effectively with my colleagues. Bob created a coaching framework that helped me achieve all those goals.

I learned how to advocate for my point of view without creating unnecessary flash. You can confidently stand your ground without alienating others. It’s quite the opposite actually. By getting clear on your role, vision, and desired outcomes, you can find alignment with others. Now getting to an agreement is faster and a more pleasant process.

— Engineering Director, Meta

Personality clashes in the workplace are inevitable. How you deal with those differences shows personal leadership. I felt the benefits of my work with Bob within a few weeks. My communication preference leans toward reserved, thinking before speaking. By zeroing in on my priorities and how work affected me mentally, physically, and emotionally, I became more assertive in order to get what I needed in a positive and supportive way.

While the process felt counterintuitive at first and required practice, it helped me grow professionally and personally. The work I did with Bob was an eye-opener. I was able to release the tension and build the confidence needed to move forward.

— Director Customer Support, Twilio

The most helpful thing for me was going to the park and walking through the martial arts steps. I love it both as a way to bounce my mindset outside the standard work setting. Also, it was a great physical manifestation of everything necessary to have a strong working relationship.

Prior to the coaching, I had received an explanation of my Kolbe along with a few key people I work with. It was very helpful in the coaching though to have a much more nuanced explanation. I find that I use much of those teachings still.

Last, I frequently used the meetings as an opportunity to raise situations I was facing at the time and get the cohort’s opinion on how to handle them. I found it both to be helpful to talk through what was going on and to get feedback from a group that was outside my normal circle often resulting in a different perspective than I’m used to seeing or hearing from my peers.

— Engineering Director, Twilio

Bob Bates was recommended to me by a friend. Wanting to go beyond analyzing the past, I reached a place where I wanted to get unstuck in several areas of my life. Bob offered a way to look at the whole picture rather than one defined and limited area. His knowledge of a vast array of methods continually amazes me.

In our work together, Bob introduced me to the Kolbe Assessment, an extraordinarily powerful tool that helps identify individual approaches without judgment or negative connotations. Now I recognize my preferences, such as the need to dive deep into data for decision making while others value a different method. By honoring my work style while being aware of the underlying inclinations that drive my coworkers, I’m more patient and achieve more of the results I seek.

As a realist, I appreciate Bob’s first-hand understanding of the pressures and quandaries of the corporate environment. For individuals who want more self-confidence and want to get unstuck, Bob provides accountability without judgment. Bob’s support goes beyond encouragement; he helps me see different viewpoints and strategize based upon their context.

— Senior Development Lead, Microsoft

I chose to work with Bob because of his experience in marketing and sales, particularly with technology marketing. My coaching engagement with him quickly evolved into real scenario planning; we worked on exercises that related to immediate issues and current projects.

I highly recommend investing in yourself, setting time aside to prioritize and reflect. My work with Bob definitely built momentum, confidence, and tangible results.

— Vice President, Global Business Marketing, Meta

Before working with Bob I found that managing stress in a fast-paced and ever-changing environment was difficult. Now I have more work-life balance, using various strategies to keep things in perspective. I appreciate that Bob used physiological exercises to illustrate how to manage from a place of integrity and calm. Very powerful.

Our organization has experienced several shifts of late. In the past, those changes would have had a major impact on how I led myself and others. With Bob’s help, I handle these situations with more ease. It’s definitely had a positive impact on my day-to-day work.

— Director, Processes & Tools, Meta

Bob is an enthusiastic, energetic, kind, and compassionate coach. He will move at your pace and push you when needed. Bob uses a wide range of coaching methodologies that will encourage you to examine your motives, behaviors and make adjustments to become more of what you desire. He’s kind but insistent when he sees inconsistencies and finds unique ways to get your attention. Highly recommend him as a coach for professionals of all ages and professions.

— Chief People Officer, Twilio

I was initially drawn to Bob as a leadership coach because of his martial arts practice; I appreciated he could bring those principles into our leadership coaching work. Because he understands our corporate culture’s dynamic quality, both in personalities and work product, Bob was effective at teasing out the most relevant factors and asking pointed questions to shift my thinking.

By asking the hard questions, he pulled out what I was really thinking and feeling. While I previously felt the trash and churn of a hectic work life, I’m now better able to keep my center as I work through complex, and often political, business issues. Bob was a much-needed neutral sounding board. He helped me identify the battles worthy of engaging.

Ultimately, I’m happier and more effective. The framework we built together guides my point of view and success.

— VP Alliances, Meta

I worked with Bob in supporting the building and scaling of my global team to support the development of our global sales organization. His background in sales and marketing was appealing, as I knew he would be able to understand the context of my work environment.

Bob’s natural mode is to listen carefully and pause. I felt that he tailored our engagement based on what I needed. I found the Leadership Maxim/One Piece of Paper exercises particularly powerful. It provided a framework to distill my leadership style and goals. It’s a practical yet strategic tool that I use for self-management as well as to communicate with others.

Bob is articulate, perceptive, and absolutely trustworthy. Our work together made a tremendous impact.

— Director Global Sales Learning Enablement, Meta

Moving from management to a director-level position requires executive presence, leveraging one’s ability to influence others and motivate teams. My work with Bob focused on that goal, using various assessments like Tilt, as well as practical exercises.

While I was skeptical of assessments at first, it was very helpful to define my natural leadership style. Bob reinforced that passion at work is a differentiator; you can channel those emotions to be an effective leader in a way that inspires teams. Bob blended the most important aspects of the assessments (like Tilt) and made them practical. Rather than academic exercises, I was able to apply those concepts in my day-to-day. Through our work together I have the foundation of advocating for my point of view that’s inclusive and more effective. Overall, it was a powerful process.

— VP Partner Engineering, Meta

I’m so grateful for my work with Bob. As a writer and manager, I felt a tension that many creative folks experience as they move through their careers, the tension between “doing” and “delegating.” Working with Bob gave me the time, space, and perspective to work through these issues. Bob became a touchstone, a sounding board, and a trusted ally. He helped me better understand my role as a manager, and helped me discover the joy of being an effective, caring manager.

It was a great treat to take some time out of a typical workday and work with Bob: the exercises we did together, particularly the somatic exercises, helped me realize the connection between my physical and mental states at work, and better manage my energy. This new mindfulness and presence have helped me feel calmer and more assured in my work and interactions, and less apt to take things personally. Quite simply, I am calmer and happier in my work now.

Above all, I felt like Bob really cared about me and my success. Even since our sessions have ended I’ve still been able to turn to him with questions. I consider him a friend, and his mentorship means a great deal to me personally. He is smart and funny and real. I’d recommend Bob to anyone.

— Creative Copywriter, Meta & Instagram

Kidango engaged Bob while our organization underwent a major transition. I lost a key team member and onboarded several new players; specifically, I needed to pull the entire team together. With Bob’s expertise and guidance, we used the Tilt assessment. It provided the backdrop for conversations about each other’s strengths and how each benefited the team.

Bob also facilitated three of our strategic planning retreats. Bob was very effective in guiding the executive team, so I felt comfortable in having him facilitate my team’s offsite meeting. He has a flexible and relatable style; everyone felt supported even when he challenged us to speak our minds. We had genuine and productive conversations that solidified and motivated our group for the work ahead.

— VP Education, Kidango

Bob helped me reflect on who I am as a leader. I appreciated his candid, friendly inquiry throughout the coaching process. Using the Tilt model and creating leadership maxims from One Piece of Paper, was eye-opening. It made me ask: Is that really me? Did I get that right?

Bob taught me specific techniques on how to stay centered, balanced, and how to deliver feedback in a timely manner. I learned how to stand my ground. I learned how to set expectations. I learned how to trust my gut. While I wasn’t used to the Somatic exercises, I found them particularly refreshing. The exercises all tied into the physical aspect of leadership. Posture, breathing, balance. It’s all about making small movements to make a big impact.

— SVP, Clinical & Strategy, Intersect ENT

As part of our leadership development program, we’re exploring the “it” factor, defining the skills and influences that drive success in our culture. Beyond personality and character traits, we want to bring self-awareness into our leadership. After looking at several assessments, we felt that Tilt was the best choice as it is optimistic and reflects how we evolve and adapt our styles to different situations.

We chose Bob as he’s very approachable and was the best fit for Clif Bar’s leadership program. I appreciated that Bob has a relaxed facilitation style, not the typical “command and control” approach. During the 1:1 sessions with our executives, he connected with them easily, letting them decide the areas of the assessment to explore that were most pertinent to them. I received positive comments about his executive coaching ability and TILT debriefing. He’s non-judgemental, asked thought-provoking questions, and was a superb listener. It was a great balance between listening and exploration; he knew just when to challenge.

— SVP HR, Clif Bar

I didn’t ask for an executive coach. When “nominated” for this opportunity I was skeptical. However, I thought I would give it a shot, learn a thing or two, and move on to more pressing priorities. Thankfully, I met Bob while interviewing executive coaches. He cut through the clutter with his straightforward and easy-going communication style. I knew there was a lot to be learned and he was going to be an amazing guide.

Bob first did a 360 assessment, gathering feedback from my team, peers, and managers. We discussed the common themes uncovered and created a plan of action. I specifically worked on improving my communication skills. In a fast-paced, execution-based work environment, encouraging feedback and buy-in has to be tempered by decisive action. By listening deeper and responding (rather than reacting), my team felt more at ease in speaking up. By delegating with clear expectations, my group became motivated and empowered. By managing and replenishing my energy, I was more focused and had better balance between work and family.

Bob showed me that if you’re 1-2% more conscious about what you’re doing, you can make a big impact. As I suspected in our first meeting, Bob was the right guide for me. He’s left a big imprint on me.

— Director Engineering, Apple

Bob helped shed some light on several things during our coaching engagement.

First, he helped me understand and sift through our team’s Tilt Assessment. This dynamic tool helps build a team culture based on understanding and trust. By looking at the “why” and less of the “what,” I was able to make better connections with my teams. Through exploring their character strengths, I was able to build on my communication and management styles.

Second, he helped me formulate a plan on how to bridge communication gaps through simple yet effective techniques like “management by walking around” and connecting with others in a personal way. Using the Tilt assessment, along with concepts from Lead Inside the Box, I feel more assured that we can find creative solutions to complex problems together.

Third, Bob introduced me to the power of meditation. What a huge difference it has made. By carving out time, and using guided meditations like Headspace, I feel more balanced. I see things differently and approach situations mindfully and with purpose.

Thank you, Bob, for such a delightful coaching experience.

— COO, Kidango

In previous roles, I was very comfortable with creating new ideas and then making those ideas happen. When I became Executive Director, I knew I had to carefully consider what kind of leader I wanted to be and how to shape my executive team. My predecessor led the organization for 37 years, so I had well-worn shoes to fill.

There are so many strategies and books about leadership available. It’s easy to get lost and lose focus. That’s why I chose Bob as my executive coach. He’s multi-faceted, using many disciplines including somatics, to guide his clients through what can be an uncomfortable and transformative process. Bob kept me focused. He helped me think through what changes needed to be made structurally to the organization. Then, we worked on how to really connect with my team.

In the beginning, I really had no work-life balance. I struggled with my relationships with the board. Employee morale was low. We needed a new organizational vision. In our work together Bob asked insightful questions, helping me find my footing. Now our organization is on the right path and I love going to work. Now that’s a big deal.

— CEO, Kidango

Bob consistently brings his “A” game to coaching. There’s tremendous pressure here in Silicon Valley on performance. As a leader, you need to find a way to push to get results in a way that motivates rather than intimidates. In working with Bob, I was surprised at how deep he got into the engagement and feedback process; it made a tremendous difference on how I viewed my performance and how it affected my team. Bob’s coaching style goes beyond venting; we analyzed my challenges from various viewpoints. Then we dug into the communication strategies that encouraged my team to move from “afraid to engage” into talking more freely and frankly. It was well worth the investment of time and energy.

— Director, Sourcing & Integration, Meta

Ten minutes into our first meeting I knew I made the right choice with Bob as my coach. His positive and energetic demeanor put me at ease yet I knew that he would challenge me in the areas I needed to improve. As an athlete, I was particularly drawn to his physical approach to clear communication and leadership presence.

As a direct result of working with Bob, I successfully negotiated a unique partnership with one of our largest clients. I can say this with conviction: I navigated the discussions with focus, communicating crucial conversations in a relaxed and purposeful way. This negotiation had major exposure across the sales organization, so there was a lot at stake. Bob helped me build and harness the momentum I needed. My only wish is that I could have worked with him longer.

— Sales Engineering, Meta

In Silicon Valley, we commonly talk about how elusive work/life balance can be. Burnout is real, and it’s a cycle that I tend to repeat. Bob showed me how to use a variety of tools to help avoid and deal with burnout; I recognize when I need to push myself and work long hours and when to pull back, allowing myself to recover and get back to normal. I’ve found that managing one’s energy takes a lot of work; it requires awareness and tending. I occasionally slip, but I now recover sooner.

Presence at the executive level, especially when working with intense personalities, is a challenge. I joined a new area of the organization where I needed to establish a reputation and raise my visibility. Bob helped me with strategies around getting centered, changing perspectives and communicating with clarity. Those strategies worked. In turn, I now mentor my team with those same lessons.

Throughout the coaching engagement, I always felt that Bob was in my corner. Even when he pushed me. He was able to coach in a way that didn’t overload me; Bob was cognizant of everything I was doing and trying to accomplish. He tailored our work together and adapted to what I needed. I learned that it’s okay to have emotions at work; it’s how you acknowledge what’s going on and then move forward that’s important.

— Senior Engineering Manager, Apple

Bob Bates masterfully facilitated a board’s strategic planning session for Apple Family Works, a nonprofit organization in Marin County. We chose Bob because we needed a strong facilitator, one that would help us come together to define our role and responsibilities, as well as create a succession plan.

It was obvious Bob did an enormous amount of preparation; he interviewed each board member and put together a comprehensive agenda based upon what he knew we needed rather than what we asked for. Starting off with somatic exercises, Bob quickly identified the trust issues in the room. We learned about how each of us operated as individuals, our resistance, and how we responded to stress. By using this approach, it helped us get more comfortable, especially when the discussions got difficult. When we got stuck, Bob circled back to those exercises helping to move us forward in a constructive way.

As a board, we struggled with our vision statement, which in actuality was a string of goals. Using an alternative concept, a BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goal), we were able to create a focal point, one that was easier for us to put our vision into words that inspired us.

Throughout this process, Bob kept the conversation on track to the outcomes we wanted. At his core, Bob is a resourceful and a sensitive listener. Because of his thorough and insightful approach, he guided us through some very difficult and stressful conversations. We made important decisions and created a foundation where trust could grow. As the Board President, I left the session feeling good about the work we accomplished.

— Board of Director, Apple Family Works

We hired Bob to create a customized presentation for our managers, material that would guide them on what it means to be a leader when confronted with challenges. Our corporate culture is one that values creativity, and I was impressed with how Bob’s awareness and intuition influenced the content and approach. Engaging, entertaining, and genuine in his delivery. Bob’s speaking style connected with my audience and encouraged interaction. It’s special to find a coach that translates very well into a group setting! The role-playing examples were a big hit; he modeled how to manage a difficult conversation, one where you remain centered and focused that honors both sides.

During the planning phase of the workshop, I believe it’s important for HR and the consultant to have chemistry. It’s the undercurrent for the final product, and the recipients can feel it. From the first phone call, Bob was responsive, professional, and real, making me feel immediately at ease. He’s experienced and smart, truly an expert at what goes into leadership presence. Most of all, you can feel that he loves what he does. It was a joy to work with Bob and a very positive process overall!

— Director Human Resources, Lieberman Productions

Bob created an environment that encouraged me to participate and push beyond my comfort levels. Articulate and intelligent, Bob exemplified the link between knowing your higher purpose and becoming an effective leader.

The biggest impact of our work together was that he helped expand my ecosystem. Bob gave me tools to articulate my values and vision, specifically how they translate into my work. With thoughtful analysis, feedback, and creative ideas from Bob I was able to crystallize what was important to me. The result was a powerful, authentic statement that became the foundation of what truly inspires me.

Using my values statement, I was then able to connect with each individual member of my team to learn what inspires them. Together we created a framework similar to a start-up, banding together in an entrepreneurial endeavor amidst a global company. I believe it is through my work with Bob that I was able to create an atmosphere where my team is energized and focused on our mission.

One of the things I most appreciated about Bob was his willingness to put me first. By being open and flexible, it allowed me to get to a more soulful and introspective place. Working with Bob was transformative, giving me tools I’ll continue using for years to come.

— Head of Enterprise Sales, Americas, Dow Jones

Bob and I focused primarily on executive presence: leading when you need to lead, grounding others around a goal, and knowing when to follow. Bob brings a lot of value in that he provides a hands-on approach to making small changes that have a big impact. Helping me link the mental and physical, he demonstrated how to use your body to approach stressful situations. I particularly appreciated that our sessions were conducted outdoors. As a result, I feel more levelheaded, in control, and more purposeful in my work.

Bob has fine-tuned a somatic approach for the executive that’s effective, especially for those who want quick and profound adjustments.

— VP Finance & Commercial Operations, iXRenewables

I have been very fortunate to have had Bob as a leadership coach. He helped me not only achieve an inspiring vision for leading my team but helped in delivering business results in a very consolidated time frame. From our very first coaching session, I was able to apply techniques and see results immediately. Bob’s expertise in the realm of sales and marketing also helped me establish cross-functional relationships that were key to my team’s success. Bob is an exceptional coach, professional, and human being. He is extremely genuine and passionate about his clients and his work. Partnering with Bob has been the best investment I have made in my career and I look for the opportunity to work with him again.

— Training Executive, Meta

I chose to work with Bob because I was ready to look inward, to honestly assess my capabilities, and identify areas for growth. Because of Bob’s sales and marketing knowledge, he quickly became my “Counselor in Chief.” He served as a supportive and insightful sounding board, a touchstone that kept me sane in the midst of corporate restructuring.

Bob understands that the social selling sales landscape is quickly changing. By getting back to basics in this new world, he helped me articulate my value as well as identify my core values. As a result, I’m more confident in advocating for my ideas and leading by example.

— SVP, Sales Solutions, BrightTALK

Bob brings a great balance of classic leadership fundamentals and holistic methodologies. Through his coaching I now view my interactions with others differently. I’m more mindful of how I approach setting expectations (and raising the bar when appropriate) as well as providing constructive feedback with my direct reports.

Bob creates an open and honest environment that facilitates frank and meaningful discussions. I had several “aha” moments prompted by Bob’s well-placed and thought-provoking questions. As a result, I’m operating at a deeper level of awareness of what motivates me as a leader and how to motivate others.

— Senior Manager of New Product Operations, Apple

I knew that working with Bob was a phenomenal opportunity, one that would help me fine-tune how I communicate with others as my role expanded at the Boys & Girls Club of America. Through his expert coaching, I learned that leadership presence can be achieved by making small changes. Those incremental changes lead to tremendous progress, in getting things accomplished, motivating others to follow, and feeling more confident.

Because of Bob’s background and management experience, he shared several tools and methodologies, like the Kolbe assessment and centering exercises, that can be used in the “real world.” Now I recognize how I process information and my communication preferences. Now I’m able to make adjustments, enabling me to strategically lead while still being inclusive. Working with Bob was an amazing experience, one that I highly recommend for managers who want to evolve into true leaders.

— National Director, Boys & Girls Club of America

After working with Bob I have a deeper appreciation for the changes in today’s work environment and how it affects how we lead. Known as a straight shooter with high intensity, I realized I needed to manage myself and others in a different way.

The pace of change in business, along with the need for flawless execution, can put tremendous strain on individuals, teams, and how we connect with each other. Bob introduced me to Somatics, namely how our bodies react to pressure, and in turn how it affects our feelings, mood, and ability to lead. When you’re more relaxed, it’s amazing how you can absorb much more pressure than you ever thought possible. By using these techniques, I now show up differently. My communication is more crisp and concise, helping convey my message more effectively with others. As a result, my work environment is more relaxed and collaborative.

The Kolbe Assessment was a game-changer for my organization. We used it as a backdrop for my team to learn about each other’s strengths and preferences, and how to respect those differences. We now have planning sessions where the communication structure is simply more effective. I ask for information in a more inclusive way, one that balances my need for detail and others’ need for autonomy.

If you’re looking for a leadership coach who is energetic and perceptive, one who can provide a balanced approach that can directly improve your performance, then Bob is that coach.

— Director Customer Support, Asia Pacific

After leaving a particularly intense job I purposefully took time off to explore some deep questions: what do I really want to do, what is my right next move, what work brings the best out of me and others. After several unsuccessful self starts on this personal journey I needed a guide. I needed someone that could lead me through a career inventory, tackle the hard questions, and hold me accountable in the process. Bob was that perfect guide.

Bob is really good at marketing and is a skilled listener. He took me through a series of exercises, One Piece of Paper, Mastery, Kolbe, that provided a framework to refine how I promoted myself and talk about my accomplishments in an authentic way.

Our work on the Kolbe Assessment was the foundation for my LinkedIn profile. This assessment was so accurate; it helped me describe who I am, my natural strengths, and the type of environments where I thrive. This added a whole new dimension. Knowing your natural inclinations and how you add value is very freeing.

The whole experience sharpened my focus on what I wanted to do next with my career, and I’ve entered that next phase with confidence of purpose. My work with Bob will serve me for years to come.

— COO, Crowd Sourcing and Entertainment

I chose to work with Bob because of his marketing background and down-to-earth approach. He really understands the fast-paced environment that accompanies high-tech marketing. Rather than work on theoretical exercises, we dug into real scenarios. Bob is an astute listener with high integrity; I appreciated his ability to discuss and tackle actual situations I was facing. As leaders, we must be willing to have hard conversations. With Bob’s coaching, I’m more confident in initiating those discussions while at the same time authentically sharing more of myself with my direct reports. Overall, it was a tremendous experience.

— Global Director Sales & Learning, Meta

As I was stepping into a cross-functional and highly visible project, I asked for a professional coach. Bob Bates came highly recommended by several trusted colleagues. Bob was a natural fit because of his marketing background. More importantly, he had a genuine warmth that immediately makes you feel at ease. I appreciated his point of view, seeing me as a whole person rather than a job description or marketing role to be done more efficiently.

One of the lessons that really stood out for me centered around pressure you can handle more than you think. It’s less about the pressure and more about how you handle it. For example, receiving feedback by observing rather than reacting. Changing perspectives is very powerful even if you can’t change the situation around you.

You can tell that Bob really cares about the wellbeing of his clients. He understands the dynamics of large organizations and typical challenges. In working with Bob I gained insight into what bogs me down, what drains my energy, and how to better ask for what I need. I’ll take these valuable lessons and use them throughout my career.

— Marketing Manager, Meta

When you’re part of a complex organization, one with several layers of middle management, it’s easy to become a chameleon. In a culture where change and transitions occur frequently, it requires one to be adaptable and flexible. Yet through those subtle adjustments and accommodations, you can lose your sense of self, your sense of purpose and focus. That was the context of my work with Bob. He helped me reflect upon my leadership style, getting me back to center so I have a renewed sense of purpose.

As a pragmatist, I was already comfortable with the intellectual aspects of leadership. I didn’t think about the spiritual, emotional, and physical aspects of leading myself and others. Through Bob’s coaching and guidance, I better understand the physical cues of leadership, how you project yourself and advocate your point of view. That was a particularly valuable lesson. While I was always considerate of others, I now connect on a deeper and more meaningful level. Bob is masterful at facilitating the introspection process necessary to become a more well-rounded leader.

— Global Marketing Director, Meta