top of page

Member Spotlight: Archana Parmar

Writer's picture: Jayasree MenonJayasree Menon

In this New Year Spotlight, we feature Archana Parmar, a certified communication coach, master in leadership communication and behavioural transformation.

From reflecting on lessons learned to envisioning the future of leadership, this interview is a masterclass in starting the New Year on a strong and inspired note. Read more on dynamic training methods and human-centered approach which created a lasting impact.



Get ready to step into the mind of a seasoned expert and discover how to unlock your full leadership potential.


Rapid Fire:

  • The most powerful leadership book you recommend: "Leaders Eat Last" by Simon Sinek


  • One mistake leaders often commit in communication: Leaders often fail to listen actively, assuming that communication is a one-way street instead of fostering an open dialogue.


  • An inspiring quote that resonates with your coaching philosophy: "Leadership is not about being in charge. It's about taking care of those in your charge." – Simon Sinek


  • If you had to sum up your teaching methodology in one line, what would it be? Empowerment through practical application: We learn best by doing, reflecting, and adapting.


  • If your clients had to describe your training, how would they describe or how do you hope to be known?

    Engaging, transformative, and grounded in real-world relevance — helping leaders unlock their potential with clarity and confidence.



Voice of Leadership Communication

What does leadership communication mean in your own words? How does it shape the leaders in the corporate world?


Leadership communication, in my view, is the ability to effectively convey ideas, inspire action, and build trust through both verbal and non-verbal channels. It shapes leaders in the corporate world by fostering transparency, alignment, and motivation within their teams. Strong communicators create an environment where people feel heard, valued, and empowered to contribute to the organization's goals.


As a certified communication coach, what are the most effective leadership communications that every leader must master?

Every leader must master clear, concise, and empathetic communication. Active listening, giving constructive feedback, and being able to convey vision and strategy in a relatable manner are essential. Additionally, emotional intelligence — understanding and managing emotions — helps leaders navigate complex interpersonal dynamics and resolve conflicts effectively.


How have these diverse experiences as a coach (IELTS Trainer, communication coach, corporate exposure, NLP, and Psychometric trainer) influenced you as a communication coach?

These diverse experiences have broadened my approach to communication by emphasizing adaptability. As an IELTS trainer, I learned how to communicate with clarity and structure and the nuances of language- vocabulary; as a communication coach, I focus on emotional connection and storytelling. Corporate exposure taught me the nuances of professional communication, while NLP and psychometric training refined my ability to understand individual personalities and tailor communication to different types of people. This combination allows me to connect more.


Could you explain the NLP Communication Model in a way that’s both practical and relatable for our readers?

The NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) Communication Model suggests that our perception of the world is shaped by our senses (sight, sound, touch, etc.), and the language we use influences how we think and behave. In a leadership context, this means being aware of how your words and actions influence the mindset of your team. By adjusting language (both verbal and non-verbal) to align with the team’s thought processes, leaders can enhance clarity, motivation, and collaboration. For instance, using more positive, solution-oriented language fosters a growth mindset among employees.


Could you share the most exciting chapter of your career and a turning point that shaped your journey as a coach?

One of the most exciting chapters of my career was when I transitioned from teaching language proficiency to coaching corporate leaders. This shift allowed me to combine my skills in communication and behavioural science to facilitate lasting transformations. A turning point came when I worked with a senior executive struggling to communicate his vision to his team. Witnessing the significant impact of coaching on his leadership style and team engagement was a powerful realization of how effective communication can change organizational culture.


What’s the most memorable feedback you’ve received from a client, and what lessons did it teach you?

One memorable piece of feedback came from a client who said, "You made me realize that communication is not just about talking; it’s about listening, understanding, and responding in a way that motivates." This taught me that leadership communication is a two-way process.


What are the common communication barriers you’ve observed in workplaces, and how do you guide your clients to break these obstacles, especially when fostering gender equity?

Common communication barriers include misinterpretations, hierarchical silos, and biases (conscious or unconscious). In terms of gender equity, challenges like unequal participation in meetings or subtle gender biases often emerge. I guide my clients by encouraging an inclusive communication culture, where every voice is valued. I also work on raising awareness of unconscious bias and empowering women to communicate assertively. For leaders, I focus on creating an environment where feedback is constructive, inclusive, and action-oriented, ensuring that both men and women are given equal opportunities to contribute and lead.


How challenging is curriculum development for coaches in the context of AI advancements and tools like ChatGPT?

Curriculum development is both exciting and challenging in the age of AI. On one hand, AI tools like ChatGPT offer new ways to create personalized learning experiences and streamline content delivery. On the other hand, AI is constantly evolving, and it's essential for coaches to stay updated with emerging technologies while ensuring that human touch — emotional intelligence, empathy, and nuanced understanding — remains at the core of coaching.

Balancing AI-driven tools with the need for authentic, human-centered learning is the key challenge.


What innovations or methodologies in training do you plan to bring into the corporate world?

As of now, I plan to bring more experiential learning methodologies, such as gamification and scenario-based training, into the corporate world. These methods make training more interactive, practical, and engaging. Additionally, leveraging AI and data analytics for personalized coaching will help me track progress, assess communication styles, and tailor content to individual needs. Combining these innovative approaches with traditional coaching techniques will enhance both engagement and effectiveness.


Archana Parmar, an accomplished Executive Communication Coach, specializes in elevating communication skills for executives, senior leaders, and high-potential individuals. With tailored strategies and constructive feedback, she empowers clients to articulate ideas, inspire teams, and cultivate meaningful connections with stakeholders.

35 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page