It happens to most of us. After many years in the same role, our behavior can be shaped more by the expectations of the position than by the personal qualities we actually bring as leaders.

After many years as an HR leader at Equinor, Jan Tore discovered a learning arena that challenged him to look deeper into both himself and his leadership role.

“It felt like coming home. I rediscovered a more natural and curious way of being a leader,” he says.

Sustainable improvement

It was a colleague who recommended the course run by TNG Consulting.

“She described it as a chance to learn more about myself and my leadership – a way to grow. That really struck a chord. The course opened up reflection both inward and outward,” says Jan Tore.

He has worked at Equinor for 15 years, with HR responsibilities in leadership and employee development, organizational development, and HR technology. His passion lies in balancing progress and sustainability.

“I’m passionate about improvement, but it has to happen in a way that cares for the people around us and the larger context we’re part of,” he explains.

Development through practice

For Jan Tore, the course was both challenging and rewarding.

“This is a very practical course. You can’t just lean back and absorb theory. You have to participate actively, challenge yourself, and practice doing things differently.”

He highlights the importance of practicing real-life situations. In HR, the concept of the “difficult conversation” is well known, and something Jan Tore has dealt with often. The program’s practical approach helped him see new solutions.

“The course has enabled me to approach such situations in a more open and curious way,” he says.

Long-term value

“Coaching is a powerful tool, but it must be used correctly. One of the most important lessons for me was understanding when coaching is the right approach, and when other methods should be applied,” he continues.

Jan Tore experiences the learning from the course as deeply impactful, though something that will take time to fully integrate into everyday work.

“I don’t think my employer has seen the big effects yet, but my colleagues notice the difference. Over time, this way of working will influence how we develop together,” he says.

He also values the learning environment created by the program.

“It felt safe from the very beginning, while still pushing us out of our comfort zones. We were a group that supported and developed each other along the way, and it was inspiring to see how everyone made progress.”

Not for everyone

For Jan Tore, this is a program for people who are open to personal development and interested in evolving their leadership. But that openness is a key requirement to get the full benefit.

“I don’t think this course is for everyone. You need to be willing to look inside yourself and dare to be challenged. But if you are in that group: I have never experienced a program as good as this,” he says.

He ends with praise for the facilitators.

“Toril and her team are outstanding. They combine professional depth with a warm and inclusive teaching style. I highly recommend this course to anyone who wants to explore their potential as a leader.”

This article has been translated from Norwegian to make it available to a wider audience. Quotes and expressions may not be word-for-word, but we have sought to preserve the meaning.

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