In Post 1, I reflected on the shift from constant travel to purposeful presence, and why I now only get on a plane when it’s truly needed.
While virtual delivery works brilliantly for many engagements, some moments require something different. They need presence. Space. Time. Focus. Trust. Nuance.
These are the moments when strategy needs to become real. When the programme is at risk of drifting and the strategy is being undermined. When relationships are frayed. Or when the leadership team is on the brink of a breakthrough but hasn’t quite unlocked it yet.
That’s when being in the room matters.
I remember a recent engagement in the UK where the client team had to be gently nudged into gathering in person. Twenty people from five separate entities travelled from all over the country (except me, the Systemic Team Coach who travelled from Portugal, combining this with other work in the UK). The task was to plan the build of an integrated operating model; though truthfully, most didn’t realise that’s what they needed until we started and the conversations developed. This is what happens. Once in the room, we left titles and badges at the door. What emerged was remarkable; alignment, clarity, and actionable next steps for an exciting mega project. A powerful reminder that sometimes, presence really is the unlock.
I’ve sat in offsites where at the beginning of the session, the strategy was only half aligned. I’ve facilitated conversations where what wasn’t being said was more important than what was. I’ve coached leadership teams through step changes that simply couldn’t have landed over a video call.
Presence allows you to observe dynamics, notice misalignments, and bring people together in a way that remote work sometimes can’t replicate. But that doesn’t mean more travel is the answer. It means the right travel, at the right moment, with the right people, for the right purpose.
When I’m in the room, it’s never just to show up. It’s to create clarity. Unlock execution. Build capability. And make sure the value doesn’t disappear when I leave. Leaving a resilient, sustainable legacy is what I aim for.
And yes, when the work is done, I make space to connect with the place; whether that’s a cultural visit, a shared conversation, or a memorable meal. Context builds connection. And connection supports delivery.
These are the moments I’ll be exploring throughout this series. Because the global advisory life isn’t about the flights. It’s about the impact you create when you land.
🔹 I drive capability and capacity so scaling companies can deliver complex strategies.
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@Strategist Solutions @International Coaching Federation @Project Management Institute @Major Projects Association
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