We caught up with The Horan Group coach Irene Tsang in Hong Kong to ask her a few questions about her coaching philosophy and what inspires her work.
Can you tell us the connection between your current Masters Studies and your work as a coach?
I’m doing a Masters in Buddhist Counselling at the University of Hong Kong. I don’t really have the intention to become a counsellor but I feel that Buddhist teachings on training the mind to understand reality would help my work in coaching. I’m about half way through the program and I found that the quality of my work as a coach is enhanced by a deeper level of listening and connection. Some of the tools also help, like mindfulness practices and the analysis of how our perception affects our thinking have all been effective in the coaching context.
Can you share with us a recent project you’re working on?
A recent project I’m working on is something I really enjoy. It involves a diverse group of women leaders who have been identified from their organisations, almost all are facing some changes in their careers: changing positions or markets, expanded responsibilities, identifying the next move in their career advancement…etc. Partnering with the organisation, we designed a process for their development which involves leadership workshops, peer coaching sessions, self-reflections and networking. What I like about a project like this is that the duration (a 9-month period) allows us to witness individual development as well as the growth of support among group members
Can you share insights on your recent art walk in Japan?
This was the second time I went to the Setouchi Triennale. Returning after 3 years it was still refreshing and inspiring. What I appreciate most is the idea that a lot of the installations are done in harmony with the surrounding environment. It felt like we were visiting the place as much as the appreciating the art pieces. I believe creative efforts do not really take place in isolation but are interrelated one way or the other.
With over 20 years of experience in the luxury retail industry, Irene Tsang has vast experience in working closely with business units and is considered highly effective as a learning and development professional. Empathy and reflective questions are the cornerstones of her coaching process, offering practical, actionable solutions. Irene’s proven ability in translating vision and strategy into actions, as well as high connectivity among a range of people in terms of positions, personalities and cultures means that she is often sought out as an internal coach to leaders. Find out more about Irene here!
