What does it mean to coach a leader in context? At Berman Leadership, this question sits at the heart of our work.
In his Human Wise podcast appearance, Dr. Bill Berman offered a phrase that captures the approach:
“Think psychologically, act commercially.”
Coaching doesn’t require a trade-off between individual growth and business results. The most effective work happens when both are addressed in tandem—when a leader’s internal experience is explored with the same care as their external performance.
This is what we refer to as Context Driven Coaching.
It begins by understanding the leader’s mindset—their goals, fears, values, and assumptions. But it doesn’t stop there. It places those insights within the broader system they lead: their team, their stakeholders, and the strategic priorities of the organization.
We regularly explore questions like:
- How are personal dynamics shaping leadership decisions?
- In what ways do internal beliefs affect external outcomes?
- How can a leader’s growth contribute to both their development and the business’s success?
Rather than separate the personal from the professional, we help leaders integrate them. Confidence in decision-making. Clarity in stakeholder conversations. A more intentional leadership presence. These outcomes don’t just serve the individual—they support the enterprise.
Bill’s background in both psychology and business reflects this integrated view. He notes that coaching is often seen as either personal or commercial. But in practice, the most effective coaching respects both:
- It’s psychologically informed
- It’s contextually grounded
- And it’s focused on impact at multiple levels
Context Driven Coaching isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s built on a deep understanding of the leader and the business. It’s practical, reflective, and aligned with the complexity of modern leadership.
Because when leaders grow in context, the results are both personal and organizational.
Learn more about our coaching approach:
https://bermanleadership.com/our-approach