Knox Business and Career Coaching & Mentoring

14/05/2026

Navigating the Shift: From Corporate Roles to Coaching Success 🌟

Reflecting on my journey from a well-paid PAYE role to carving my own path as a self-employed executive coach—a transition I’ve embraced wholeheartedly over the past four years—has been nothing short of transformative. For those considering a similar leap, here’s a glimpse of my experience:

🔹 2022–2024: The Entrepreneurial Apprenticeship
This phase was marked by high costs and a steep learning curve. I invested in re-training and focused on building connections. While revenues were low, they laid the groundwork for future growth.

🔹 2025: Market Re-Entry
After relocating, I refined my offerings and defined my niche in executive coaching. This year was pivotal as I began finding my “Anchor Clients”—the foundation upon which I could build.

🔹 H1 2026: Optimization
With lessons learned and systems improved, I focused on reducing inefficiencies, targeting higher-margin contracts, and stabilizing cash flow. Growth became more than a goal; it evolved into a sustainable reality.

Moving from being a cog in a large machine to becoming the architect of my professional life has been both challenging and deeply rewarding. Embracing the unknown, fostering relationships, and continuously learning have been the keys to my journey.

For anyone contemplating a similar transition, remember: every step is a move toward self-discovery and empowerment. What challenges have you faced on your journey? Let's share our insights!

10/05/2026

Moving into a senior role isn't just about a new title; it’s about how you show up every day. ☕️ In my coaching sessions here in Dublin, we often focus on three simple shifts:

1️⃣ Getting things moving: Instead of overthinking, focus on taking that first practical step. Action beats perfection every time.

2️⃣ Staying the course: Senior roles come with more "noise." Keeping a steady focus through the ups and downs is what really sets you apart.

3️⃣ Finishing well: It’s about seeing things through and making sure the work actually helps the team succeed.

Real drive isn't loud—it’s just consistent. 🌿

01/04/2026

https://www.independent.ie/business/money/the-mid-career-pay-plateau-why-earnings-drop-after-50-and-what-you-can-do-about-it/a658495270.html?flow=subscribe®istration=success&force_sl=1®=true

🦉Don’t underestimate the value of soft skills

“At that stage, it’s not just what you can do anymore, it’s how you do it. That’s a real differentiator for people,” says Daragh Knox (www.daraghknox.com), an executive career coach in Dublin.

He emphasises the importance of communication, adaptability and emotional intelligence, honed over time, and argues these can be as essential as any technical competencies.

🧰“[Other candidates] might have the experience, might know how to [do the] sums, but you know how to bring people with you. It really comes over in the way you do your work.

"And reputations can be a big friend when the chips are down. So if we find ourselves in a tricky spot, such as working for an organisation in our 50s that is introducing redundancies or closing down, we have a broad church of professional friends and acquaintances who know enough about us to get us back in the game.”

20/03/2026

🚀 Scaling Your Impact: From Tech Expert to Visionary Leader
Being the smartest person in the room is a great asset—until you’re the one leading the room.
💡In cutting-edge, innovative environments, the transition to leadership isn’t just a title change; it’s a deep psychological evolution. For my fellow technical powerhouses, the "inner work" of leadership is often the most challenging code you’ll ever have to crack.

🔍 What’s Hiding in Your Blind Spots (we all have them!)?
Even the most skilled professionals have gaps they can't see. That’s why I’m a firm believer in the Leadership Architect framework. By utilizing 360-degree feedback, we don't just look at what you do—we look at how you impact those around you.

Executive coaching helps bridge the gap between:
✅ Technical Mastery ➡️ Strategic Influence
✅ Problem Solving ➡️ People Empowering
✅ Individual Logic ➡️ Organizational Empathy

🌟 The Innovation Edge
To lead in a high-growth, "what’s next" workplace, you have to be willing to confront your own areas for improvement. It’s about moving beyond the "how" and mastering the "who."

The question isn't whether you're good at your job—it's whether you're ready to inspire a team to be even better.

👇 Drop a "YES" in the comments if you’re focusing on your leadership growth this year!

05/02/2026

Identify your leadership blind spots and reclaim control of your career trajectory. Explore the practical power of Self-Awareness in Leadership for modern executives and agile leaders.

🔔https://www.daraghknox.com/post/self-awareness-leadership-executive-coaching

26/01/2026

There is a quiet power in an old graveyard. 🌿

I recently spent some time at the old graveyard in West Clare, where my relatives are buried. Being there brought me back to a pivotal moment in my career.

Years ago, during a period of intense professional complications, I sat down with my executive coach. I was stressed, overwhelmed, and convinced the sky was falling.

He told me to look out the office window. "Where’s the graveyard?" he asked. I told him there wasn't one.

"Exactly," he said. "There is none. You’re working for enjoyment, and there is no challenge that can’t be overcome."

It was a masterclass in perspective. In the corporate world, we often treat deadlines like life-or-death situations, but most "crises" are just puzzles to be solved. 🧩

When we remove the life-or-death weight from our work, we find the freedom to actually enjoy the challenge.

Where do you go to get your perspective back?
. .

28/11/2025

Coaching is often characterized as passive listening or generic advice. We believe it is a highly personalized and collaborative partnership designed to bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be.

At its core, coaching provides: ✅ Deep Support (Trusted Listener) ✅ Self-Awareness (Clarity Finder) ✅ Measurable Progress (Empowering Accountability)

A dedicated coach acts as a catalyst for change, helping you unlock your full potential and achieve the professional fulfilment you seek. This is true whether you’re navigating career transitions, striving for leadership development, or seeking strategic focus in a new executive role.

Ready to understand the engine that drives enduring personal and professional growth?

https://www.daraghknox.com/post/executive-coaching-guide

Ready for a career transition? A dedicated career coach or executive coaching expert provides the clarity, confidence, and strategy you need. Learn how focused guidance supports leadership development, helps you overcome career setbacks, and unlocks your full potential in business coaching.

23/11/2025

Career transitions can feel overwhelming—low confidence, scattered focus, outdated CVs, shy about networking… We help you regain direction, build confidence, and take the next step with assurance. Knox Business and Career Coaching is here to guide you every step of the way.

20/11/2025

20/11/2025