Michele Aptman

Associate Certified Coach - International Coaching Federation

I describe my coaching style as “Compassionate Honesty”. 

I give you the space to think out loud, but also share back my interpretation of what you are and are not saying. It is an important balance.

I was fortunate to discover my passion for coaching in the past decade whilst working with leaders at all levels.

I started with the intention of focusing on the business issues but quickly learned that the business and personal sides are interconnected. Habits are easier to spot when looking at the whole person, not just a part. 

In my work I question whether our habits or beliefs are still serving us well. Either way it's important to recognize them and be intentional about what we will do the same or differently.

Many of my clients have assumed what worked in a previous role or situation, will work again, even if the context changes. They think if they have led a team before, their style will motivate the next team they work with, even though the group dynamics, history, and goals may well be different. It doesn't always translate.

Coaching is the safe space for my clients to show their vulnerabilities, share their doubts, and be proud of their strengths. I have found that whether my clients are leaders or individual contributors they need to address their beliefs, doubts, vulnerabilities, and strengths to make intentional change.

Michele Testimonials

“I am incredibly grateful for Michele's coaching support during my transition from Google to Pinterest. From the outset, Michele established a safe and trusting environment, allowing me to share my concerns, aspirations, and challenges openly. Her thought-provoking questions helped me gain clarity, challenge limiting beliefs, and explore alternative perspectives, resulting in valuable insights and increased self-awareness.

I wholeheartedly recommend Michele's expertise to anyone seeking growth and empowerment in their career."

JD, Global Head of Sales Enablement, Technology

“Michele is a sophisticated change management expert and her impact on the organization has been significant both in terms of the key deliverables she's led and the ongoing coaching she has provided sales leaders, HR leaders, and me. “

PB, Head of Recruiting Engagement, Technology

Professional Background:

I started my career in marketing research and sales, eventually pivoting to learning & development. I helped launch and grow major household brands and taught brand managers how to use research. My next move was in tech where I worked in advertising sales, developing additional training for sellers.

I moved into learning and development, and my focus became to work with teams at all levels to help them unlock their potential. A natural extension of this was coaching, as I was already supporting the leaders and their team members to reach their professional and personal goals.

I have coached internally at Google and externally in tech, sales, human resources, and marketing.

Recent Assignments:

  • One to one coaching with sales and tech leaders transitioning from Google to their next roles internally and externally

  • One to one coaching with a senior marketing leader in tech in anticipation of promotion to the next level of leadership

  • One to one coaching for leader at international consulting firm planning for future personal and professional goals

  • Leader and team coaching for a new VP after a recent reorganization

  • Leader and team coaching for global sales teams working through interpersonal dynamics to achieve sales goals

Accreditation and Training:

  • Associate Certified Coach, International Coaching Federation

  • Certified Coach, Hudson Institute of Coaching

  • Accredited Practitioner of MBTI and Insights Discovery

  • Certificate in Principles and Practices of Organizational Development, Columbia University

  • PROSCI Change Practitioner