AI is already proving it can do many things faster, and often better, than a human. Yes, it makes mistakes – but so do we all. So check the output, just as you would question a human who worked with you.

But can it replace your coach?

In some circumstances, the answer might be “yes”. Too much coaching is done by people with little real-world experience. Would you hire a football coach who had never played the game? So why hire a business coach who has never operated at your level or beyond, and never carried the lonely burden of leadership?

You may say, “I don’t need a coach.” Maybe that is true. But do you need a sounding board?

When leadership feels loneliest

“I’m very senior,” says the client.  “I’ve been a good leader. I’ve learnt a lot. I don’t need a coach.”

And all that may be true.

But now you’ve stepped into that bigger role, the one you’ve always wanted. The terrain is unfamiliar. The decisions are weightier. The consequences are more far-reaching.

You can’t take everything to the Chairman, you’re in the seat because you’re supposed to have the answers.

You can’t share it all with your team, some issues are just too sensitive.

You need a sounding board.

Someone who has sat in your seat.

Someone who knows the weight of leadership, understands the politics without being part of them. Someone who can help you think more clearly, make better choices, and explore future paths without judgement.

What great sounding boards offer

It’s not about being told what to do. It’s about having space to think, and think well.

So what do you need in a sounding board?

Experience. Insight. Challenge. Empathy. Trust.

You can’t get that from a chatbot.