Supporting social sector leaders who want to go from surviving to thriving at work
I’m Eleanor Smith (she/her), an experienced Leadership Coach. I help social sector leaders clarify priorities and build confidence to realize their career dreams.
As a passionate and pragmatic idealist, I have found meaning and purpose working in the “social sector” (nonprofits and foundations) for over 30 years.
In the following roles and others, I’ve served dozens of mission-driven organizations driving social and climate justice:
Foundation Grantmaker
Front-line Nonprofit Staff
Development Director
Board Member
Fundraising Consultant
Strategy & Evaluation Consultant
Workshop Trainer
University Instructor
Supporting Social Sector Leaders
I hear from colleagues, students, clients and the news that burnout is a huge challenge for our sector. It threatens personal wellbeing and mission effectiveness. Despite growing attention, burnout is getting worse. It’s imperative that all of us committed to social change stay healthy to ensure the work we do drives the change we seek in the world.
I’m on a mission to help you find the work you love and build a career of purpose and joy — one that does not require you to sacrifice your wellbeing.
I’ve Been There
After college, I worked in a male-dominated field, facing roadblocks from the outside and inside. For a long time, self-doubt and second-guessing kept me from reaching for my dreams. Supported by mentors and coaches, gradually I grew more confident. Eventually, I found my way.
I have faced burnout a few times, including serious medical issues. Each time, I took stock on what I was doing to contribute to my problems and, more importantly, how to heal. I began to prioritize self-care. If I hadn’t learned those lessons, I likely would not have the joyful life and meaningful work I am deeply grateful for today.
How It Works
By listening carefully and asking questions to spark insight, I will help you gain clarity on your deepest values and motivations, as well as what might be holding you back. Together, we’ll identify the work that’s most aligned with your true self. We’ll develop strategies for moving forward with confidence and passion.
Is Coaching Right for me?
Social sector leaders in a variety of situations come to me for coaching:
Some are unsatisfied, nervous or stressed about their job or career and desire a change
Some are new leaders who wish to become more confident and comfortable in their role
Some are experienced leaders wanting to tackle their growing edges and/or shift roles
Others want to advance their careers and seek fresh perspectives on how to progress
How might a supportive thought partner help you transform your career?
I am a certified coach through the ICF-accredited Coach Training Alliance. I am also a certified Mindfulness Mentor and have training from Coaches Rising in Embodied Transformative Coaching.
WORKSHOPS
I offer practical and informative workshops to nonprofit leaders and practitioners on a range of topics, such as:
Top Emotional Intelligence Skills for Managers and Leaders
Tools to Promote Workplace Well-Being
Tips for Protecting Front-line Workers from Burnout and Traumatic Stress
Strategies to Be Happier at Work
Tips for Creating Happy, Healthy Teams
Core Values
I am curious, empathetic and eager to engage authentically with others and to listen and learn from them. In coaching social sector leaders, if relevant, I might share stories from my long career. Clients have said they appreciate my openness and sense of humor.
In life and in coaching, I am guided by the following values:
Empathy and Compassion
Honesty and Transparency
Commitment to Social Justice and Climate Advocacy
Respect
Kindness
Patience
Humility
Trust that clients ultimately know what’s best for them
A consummate learner, I read about and write regularly on trends in leadership and self-leadership, management and other social sector topics. See latest posts here.
