5 Biggest Mistakes People New to Management Make. The 5th Could Cost You Your Job!

You just became a manager. Congratulations...now what?

Leadership doesn't come with a manual. But it should. Through practical resources, coaching, and hands-on workshops, I'll help you lead with clarity, communicate with confidence, and build high-performing teams.

You want to be a leader your team respects.

You want to lead with confidence, earn trust, and know how to handle the moments that matter

I get it. Because I've been where you are.

Over the past 20 years, I've led teams, coached managers, and served in executive technology roles across New Zealand's public sector. I've learned that leadership isn't about having all the answers, it's about knowing how to communicate, build trust, and lead people well.

That's why I created practical leadership resources, coaching, and workshops designed specifically for first-time and emerging leaders.

No corporate jargon. No complicated theories. Just practical frameworks, real-world tools, and proven strategies you can use immediately to become the leader your team deserves.

You're promoted because you are capable person,

The Elephant in the room! Managing is a skill nobody teaches you

You become a manager because you're good at what you do. Then suddenly you're expected to lead people, give feedback, manage performance, and have difficult conversations.

But nobody hands you the playbook.

You don't want to get it wrong.

You don't want to damage relationships.

You don't want to end up dealing with a bigger problem later.

You just want a clear process to follow.

The Difficult Conversation Blueprint

Having difficult and tough conversations are a major part of your role and avoiding them doesn't make them disappear.

That's why I created The Difficult Conversation Blueprint. A practical guide to help new managers prepare, lead conversations with confidence, and know exactly what to do next.

You don't have to do this alone. Click on the link to find out more

I get it. It's uncomfortable. It's scary. You feel like you're meant to know what to do, but you don't.

And That's Where I Come In

My approach is holistic, because leading doesn't stop at 5pm

  • Practical over theoretical – I care about what works Monday morning, not what sounds good in a book
  • Honest over polished – leadership is messy, and I won't pretend otherwise
  • Focused on your reality – your team and your challenges
  • Results-driven – if it doesn't make you a better leader, I won't waste your time

How We Work Together

  • One-on-one coaching - tailored to your situation
  • Workshops
  • Online Group Programs
  • Webinars

Why This Works When Other Advice Doesn't

  • No overloading you with theory to fill time or space. Everything has been tested in real life 
  • Built for busy people. I'm noting going to take up hours of your valuable time
  • Focused on you. Not generic "leadership principles" that sound good but don't help you on Monday morning

Let's Talk About Your Leadership Challenge

You've read this far because something or some things resonate.

I've been where you are. And made more mistakes than anyone I know, I'm not perfect and don't pretend to be.

Eventually, I figured it out this leadership game, and now I have the skills the experience to help new managers skip the painful learning curve and get it right from the start.

Scan the QR Code to book at 30-min leadership strategy call

What We'll Cover (30 Minutes)

  • Your specific challenge – what's keeping you up at night right now
  • What's really going on – we'll dig past the surface to find the root cause
  • Your next move – you'll leave with at least one actionable step
  • How I can help – if coaching or workshops make sense, we'll discuss it. No pressure

 

What This Isn't

  • Not a sales pitch – this is a real conversation about your leadership
  • Not generic advice – we focus on your team, your situation
  • Not a waste of time – you'll walk away with clarity, whether we work together or not

 

You said it best

"Col is an outstanding leadership coach. His calm, patient approach really stood out to me and made a big difference. Working with him has helped me grow and thrive in my role. I highly recommend him"

Simon, Wellington

"I can't say enough about the workshop.

I learned more in an hour than I did in the $5000, week-long snore fest work sent me on. And this was free! It exceeded all expectations, please make the next one half an hour longer for Q&A"

Moira, Upper Hutt

"Your coaching style was really impressive and assisted me to thrive in my role"

Manjinder, Sydney

Services

Personal 1:1 Mentorship

Tailored coaching to tackle whatever's holding you back and help you step into your full potential.

Group Training

Learn virtually in a private, safe space with other new managers facing the same challenges you are.

Public Speaking

Want a speaker who cuts through the noise and gives your leaders tools they can use immediately?

Frequently Asked Questions

How can coaching help me achieve my goals?

Coaching gives you the clarity, structure, and accountability you need to move forward fast. We’ll identify what’s getting in your way, break through it, and build a clear action plan to help you lead with confidence.

Whether it’s becoming a better communicator, managing tough conversations, or preparing for your next big leadership step. I’ll help you level up your skills, mindset, and presence so you can reach your goals with purpose and impact.

What is the duration of the coaching programs?

The core program runs for 4 weeks, with one focused coaching session each week.

But leadership growth doesn’t always follow a timeline. If you need extra support or want to keep the momentum going, we can extend or customise the program to suit where you're at and where you're heading.

Do you offer virtual coaching sessions?
Yes, we offer virtual coaching sessions to accommodate your busy lifestyle.

Follow Me on Tik Tok

@coach.col

Contact Col

Location

Lower Hutt

Wellington,

New Zealand 5014