AVK’s New Era: The Life of a Consultant & Coach
Childhood; schoolgirl; college student;actor, director, playwright; English & drama teacher at NMH; Teacher/Leader at Chapin; Entrepreneur and Artistic Director of the Ensemble Theatre Community School; Mother to Miranda, Cordelia, Atticus; Headmistress of Laurel; Writer; Consultant & Coach! These are the AVK eras!.
Our lives are composed of many eras, and we carry our wisdom and experiences from one chapter of our lives into all the years that follow, always learning, always growing. .
I wasn’t particularly aware of Taylor Swift until her ERAS Tour. Suddenly, every child in my school was talking about Taylor, making friendship bracelets, discussing concert options. Ticket sales threatened to break the internet. When my son turned on Spotify, every other song was Taylor’s. How was it that she appealed to so many people? I began to read about her, think about her. We are both Pennsylvania born! And I’m slightly bitter that she may live in the Cleveland suburbs, when I just moved back to the Keystone State. Recently, I attended a webinar about her business acumen. This woman who has claimed her voice and uses her gifts for good has become a muse as I move into my own new era as a consultant and coach.
At the heart of Taylor’s star power is relationship. Like me, she’s a storyteller. Over the past twenty years, she has anticipated and answered her fans’ needs, and they’ve responded with the devotion that has sealed her fame and popularity. They feel as if they know her. She’s a genius–musician, storyteller, entrepreneur, marketing wizard, philanthropist–there is a lot to admire about her. Taylor releases albums to mark her new eras; I’m releasing a website. I have long been a thought-partner, problem-solver, keynote speaker, mentor, advisor, and writer. With this blog, I officially launch the era of Ann V. Klotz Consulting.
Taylor knows her fans crave connection, community, authenticity, vulnerability. That’s what I will offer my clients, too. My past eras will inform my expertise and wisdom. As a director, I know how to inspire and encourage; I can help you refine your presentation skills and add confidence and clarity to your leadership. More than four decades in schools mean there are few situations that shock me; I’m ready to listen and to be your partner in problem solving. I’m also excited about offering workshops to groups–faculty, leadership teams, parents–focused on the perennial challenges we face in schools! If you have a writing conundrum, I’m happy to help you generate ideas or organize and edit what you have. Need a playwright-in-residence to write plays with kids of all ages? Call me.
For years, I have enjoyed mentoring women. I’ve spent time with students and young alums, teaching them to write cover letters, how to network, how to answer questions succinctly. I have spent time with women a few years into their career who are interested in new roles. Through The Heads Network, over many years, colleagues and I have taught women how to prepare for interviews, how to answer and ask questions. I’ve mentored colleagues who need a boost of confidence after a few searches didn’t go their way. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of coaching women in leadership roles. They seek my help in thinking through knotty problems or writing scripts for challenging conversations. Sometimes, they need to vent to someone who will listen without judging because headship can be lonely.
Marge Piercy’s poem, To Be of Use is one of my favorites. Taylor Swift is young, blonde and a great singer. At first, we seem to have little in common. But, the fact is that we both prize community and connection. We both love writing and sharing stories and offering inspiration. In my new era, I want to put my experience to use to benefit others.
Reach out. Let’s explore your dreams and aspirations! Need to prep for an interview? Time to polish up your public speaking? My life as a drama teacher will help you refine your public persona. Sorting through a tricky situation? I will listen and advise. Looking for someone who can urge you on? Or who can help you to inspire your teachers? Call me. Share my website with others who might find it useful.
I promise I won’t sing, but I hope to be of use.
