About Leigh
When I was working as a temporary secretary at an investment bank in the early 1990’s, the legal counsel invited me to interview for the position of administrative partner. The job responsibilities included managing the developmental and technical training for the firm’s analysts and associates, integrating new employees into the corporate culture, and monitoring each individual’s development.
However, what most gratified me by the invitation was that in spite of the fact that I was just a temp, this widely respected partner recognized my leadership qualities and workplace abilities.
Flattered, I nevertheless declined. I knew that I needed to continue working to be a leader.
Unable to afford business school, I found jobs as a temporary secretary and used the workplace as my classroom. My goal was to get a ‘live’ 360° report on leaders’ effectiveness by interacting with a broad range of their colleagues, direct reports, ancillary staff, and family members. My homework was to read The Wall Street Journal, Business Week, and other publications I intercepted from their path to the waste basket, reflect on daily headlines and workplace happenings in my journal, and use this process to grow both as a leader and a person.
Working so closely with men and women in high-powered positions, I was able to focus on the skills, capabilities, and styles leaders brought to their jobs. My coaching, workshops and presentations meet the gaps I observed in leadership preparation and performance. To read more about my work, please visit my website at www.LTR-NYC.com.