Career coaching clients say

Des - promoted to Director in a blue chip company
" I was going through an assessment centre/panel interview for my promotion to director in a blue chip company and Denise helped me to get through the process successfully. I was impressed by the personal touch, experience, confidence and insightful feedback from Denise - she knows her area. If you want to succeed in your careers, Denise is there to help you to succeed. It was worth the investment and now I'm enjoying the fruits of the success. During my search on the Internet, Denise was the only one who could provide the personal touch I was looking for.
Click here to read the feedback letter

Alice – Seeking clarity for her career future
“Your input has been professional, and also friendly and very positive. I feel that I have your support and that I can call on you for experienced and valuable advice. Thank you for working with me so far. It has been enjoyable and I will continue to learn from it.”
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Alison – PA to Legal Executive
“I have received paid careers counselling in the past but do feel that this time, my desired outcome – a job I can truly say I love, may at long last be within my grasp. Having previously done the Myers Briggs I found the Highlands Ability Battery to be a refreshingly different and useful tool which complements the knowledge I have gained about myself and my working preferences to date. However, it is your ability to synthesise results from the HAB, Myers Briggs and an individuals passions and interests which I believe differentiates you from others in your field.”
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Andrew – Setting up own company as Quantity Surveyor and Building Cost Consultant
“First may I say I was impressed with your relaxed and informal, yet very thorough approach. I felt that you always gave me your full attention during these meetings. The second thing I thought very good about your service was the comprehensive testing you undertook at the start of the process, especially the Highlands Ability Test which I felt gave me a valuable insight into the kind of person I am.

Following on from this, the way in which you guided me through the test results and helped me to come up with a workable plan was excellent. Your detailed understanding of how our personality types affect our working lives was extremely useful here. I liked also the emphasis you put on considering leisure pursuits to satisfy abilities which may not be fully used in our work.”
Click here to read the feedback letter

Ben – Temp to ideal job
“I think the best thing I can say about the advice you have given me is that you have always been frank and open in our discussions, an excellent sounding board for career frustrations. The Highlands Battery was a really useful, as well as a very informative exercise. It confirmed many things that I already knew and gave me confidence that I wasn’t as bad a judge of my own character as I was beginning to feel I might be. The Myers Briggs and Strong Interest Inventory rounded off the package, showing me that many of my career inclinations were correct, while broadening the field of options with jobs that I might not have ordinarily have considered.

The best thing about the advice that I have received is that it never stops! In between all our conversations and careers consultations, you always have a kind message and a keen interest in my news and any developments that may have taken place between our meetings. In a car dealership you would certainly have a five star rating for after sales care! You are also brilliant at coming up with new ideas and new concepts for discussion, research and analysis of career options.”
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Debbie – Achieved success in application to CEO Interview Coaching
“The transformation that you have achieved for me is remarkable. A couple of months ago I was coming out of interviews having failed completely to get my points across. With your help I have learned how to prepare myself, focus on the interviewers’ questions and ensure that I communicate all the important facts concisely and effectively. You have also provided the all-important boost to my self confidence, by spotting and building upon what I did well, as well as acknowledging my weaknesses with constructive, practical tips to overcome them.

As you know, I have now been offered an amazing job with an organisation where I believe that I can add real value and which is compatible with my commitments to my young family. I thought this was quite a tall order, but by helping me to focus on what is important, you have helped me to find the ideal career move.

It has been a delight to work with you and you made me feel as though I was your most important client. You are invariably cheerful and positive, but above all you really know what makes a difference in the world of recruitment and selection. You truly are an “Amazing Person” and I will be recommending you to everyone I know.
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Fiona – Teacher to Estate Agent
“From our first conversation on the telephone I felt comfortable and able to talk openly and honestly about the way I felt and what I was looking for. One of the most important aspects for me was to be able to sit face to face and talk through the available options. I learnt so much about myself using the internet based tests along with your skilled interpretations. Almost a year on I am still applying what I learned and considering your advice as I take each step towards a new career and a much more sustainable work life balance.

I would also like to thank you for the work you did with my daughter. She is now doing the job she wanted and looking around and applying for her next job with a confidence she wouldn’t have had before her sessions with you.”
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George – Unclear graduate to a success on an Advertising graduate trainee scheme
“The effort you’ve put in on my part, in particular with the support you offered, and continue to offer, after all our scheduled meetings had taken place, has been above and beyond my expectations. I doubt I could have found such professional and caring guidance for such varehensive approach, in that you go way beyond whlue elsewhere, and I did a good deal of research before choosing you.

I would also like to thank you for suggesting I take the Highlands Ability Battery, which in conjunction with your help in interpreting its results have been little short of a revelation for me in terms of understanding my own strengths and weaknesses, and the reasons for past successes and failures.”
Click here to read the feedback letter

Gethin – Structural Engineer to Landscape Designer
“Thanks for helping me over the past few months to understand myself better and helping me realise what type of career would suit my abilities, interests and values. The programme has also helped me understand certain aspects of myself that I can develop in future, both in my personal life and professional career. Making a career change in ones mid thirties can be a daunting task, but the path ahead seems far less daunting, thanks largely to your professional and caring advice.
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Hiran – Computer Software Engineer, Bangalore, India
“I just wanted to drop you a note to say that the course I took on career counselling with you was very helpful. The Highlands Battery Ability Test which was part of the process was very insightful. Your interpretations of the results of the test were even more helpful. I appreciate your guidance on the steps to take for satisfying the abilities and alternative career paths … Thanks you Denise once again for your organised approach and patience.”
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Irene – Army Officer to a new career in Italy
“As soon as we spoke on the phone your gentle demeanour put me at ease immediately and my fears were a laid. After discussing the best way forward I completed the Highlands Ability Battery and your detailed explanation of the results made it clear why I had been feeling like I had been trying to swim up hill through treacle at work.

Your enthusiastic explanations of my natural abilities make my eyes twinkle with the ray of wonderful possibilities that lay ahead in my life, many I have never even imagined. You make me realise that there are so many fantastic pathways open to me. Although I am still researching and exploring which will be the path of my dreams, I have to tell you that your guidance and continued support has been the key to unlocking the gates to these magical pathways and new adventures. Denise you are an inspirational Goddess and you have made me love life to the full again!

Your tentative manner makes me feel as though I am being treated as a friend not just as a client, which has been immensely reassuring during this important change in career, and life direction. Taking the steps to get in touch with you is the best move I have made in years and it has definitely been a positive life changing experience.”
Click here to read the feedback letter

Jessica – Civil Servant to business owner
“I would like to thank you for all your help and support with helping me decide on what career path to take. I was quite confused on where to go with my career when I first met you but after our conversations and completing some questionnaires/reports, including the Strong Interest Inventory I was able to make some good decisions.

I think that when making the decision to see someone to help you with an area of your life where you know you need to make changes it is a very difficult step to make. Therefore, when arranging to meet you for the first time I was quite apprehensive and felt out of my comfort zone. However, within minutes of talking with you I immediately started to relax and I knew I had done the right thing.

Your commitment and passion for your work shines through and it is very inspirational to see what can be achieved if you choose the right career for yourself and you are an excellent example for this. You are a very inspiring person and I feel grateful that I came across your path.”
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Julia – Sales and Marketing to a career in Intellectual Property
“Our work together has allowed me to recognise and re-kindle my continuing passion for science and innovation, understand my preferred work style and identify the roles that are most likely to match this style … As well as the content of our work, I have really appreciated your open and supportive coaching style”.
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Kate – Temporary assignments to photographer, Australia
“While working with Denise I found her knowledge and professionalism to be of a high standard. Together with great warmth, care and support, her guidance was marvellous through a rather tumultuous time in ones life. During the course and after, I gained so much clarity as to where my strengths, skills and interests lie which has enabled me to take the appropriate steps towards a fulfilling career and life.

I admire Denise’s work thoroughly and have recommended her to several people. I would not hesitate to say that, by working with her your quality of life could only improve as you learn about yourself with caring support. She is a wonderful woman. I’ve never met her, but feel close to her all the way here in Australia.”
Click here to read the feedback letter

Kate2 – Graduate temp to trainer
“Before signing up with Amazing People I had just left University with no real tangible ideas about what career I wanted or what career would suit me best. This had left me feeling incredibly low and frustrated, especially since most of my friends were already paving their career paths. Although I had initial apprehensions about the programme, I can sincerely say it has been one of the best decisions I have made.

Your comprehensive career counselling has not only made finding a new job fun, but has also opened my eyes to looking at new career paths I previously wouldn’t have considered. Through completing the Myers Briggs and Highlands Ability Tests during your course I have learnt a lot more about myself. I now have a greater understanding of my personality, thus I know what I would be good at rather than what I think I would be good at.

I think what has impressed me most about your course is the fact that you have been so incredibly supportive. You have also offered me new techniques and brilliant advice whenever I have needed it. The time and energy that you have given me over the last year is something I really appreciate. You have given me the confidence to really go out and grab my career with both hands and for the first time I am really excited about it.”
Click here to read the feedback letter

Kellie – unemployed to Makeup Artist
“Whilst consulting with Denise she helped me to see outside of the box and consider paths I would never have thought of before … I now feel that I have a new direction and am truly fulfilling what I want to do. It has also taught me that you don’t need to stick to one thing and more often than not having different interests and skills that might seen like they work against each others can combine to a larger picture.

I must also say that Denise helped me with my CV … With help from Denise I managed to gain full time employment … giving me time to think about what to do next. … Without the confidence and expertise given to me from Denise I would not have achieved this.”
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Lewis – Frustrated Buyer to University Researcher
“Taking career counselling with you has been one of the best decisions I’ve made and some of the best money I’ve ever spent. I also want to thank you for providing such a personal service and for advice on job applications and interviews that provided invaluable. I only wish I'd come to see you years ago.”
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Marian – Creating clarity for a high flying working mother
“You are a very talented person, combining tremendous professionalism and skill with an unusual level of empathy and insight.”
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Mark – Business owner
“Thank you for listening, sharing in a very generous, giving manner, and making me feel proud of my past. Your structured approach to taking the next steps are easy to follow and I'm making good progress and feeling much more positive about the future. Your guidance and suggestions “outpaced” two other organisations, making me feel comfortable when other so called experts did not have the depth of experience you demonstrated!”
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Naomi – Graduate to retail management trainee
“Still unsure of the route to pursue a year after graduation, I considered previous careers guidance limited and confusing. Denise was a breath of fresh air. She offers a very personal and unique programme, which is far more than standard careers advice. She proved to be a sympathetic listener who gave sound practical guidance. The scheme enable me to explore personal strengths, to gain a clear understanding of the way in which I interact with others and to discover the most appropriate working environment for me. Having completed the programme I now feel far more confident and well equipped to handle the process of applying for jobs in my chosen field, aware that Denise is on hand to offer support.”
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Pippa – Taking control of her career, within her company
“The whole experience gave me invaluable knowledge as relates to my career path and where I should look to focus my professional intentions … Through the two way journey that was undertaken, I feel more confident that I can follow my dreams and will be successful as you have helped to identify my skills and natural abilities necessary to do this.

I would eagerly recommend working with Denise to anyone who was unsure of what they wanted to do with their career, whether this is a first career or a career change much later on.”
Click here to read the feedback letter

Ranjit – Frustrated office worker to studying for an MSc in her ideal career
“I wanted to thank you for the fantastic help and support you have provided me with whilst I have been in the process of reassessing my career options. I have found your approach to careers counselling has far surpassed my expectations; not only have I learned about what careers would suit my abilities and interests, I have also learned so much about myself which I feel I can apply to all aspects of my life.

In the past I have paid for careers programmes but none have had the friendly, flexible and tailored approach you offer. I have been so pleased with my experience I have recommended you to all my friends and colleagues. Thank you!”
Click here to read the feedback letter

Rhiannon – Temp to Drug Safety Officer
“Throughout my time in your graduate scheme I have learned more about myself with each passing week, and with each meeting my confidence in my own worth has grown. The personality tests you assigned me made me realise that elements of my character that I thought were flaws are, in fact, highly desirable qualities in the right place of work … I cannot thanks you enough for introducing me to the methods by which I have come to be here. Not only were our sessions educational and useful, they were also tremendous fun.”
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Venetia – Seeking career clarity
“I found the process of doing the psychometric tests to be very enjoyable and believed that on the whole the results were very accurate. They definitely helped me to understand myself including my abilities and natural work preferences in more depth. In a way they helped me to accept myself as I am and judge myself less … I know that the information which I have gleaned from the test results and from my sessions with you will continue to be a valuable resource to me in my career search.”
Click here to read the feedback letter

Rebecca – feedback from a student
From the very first session with Denise I felt so relaxed in her company. I felt really comfortable to open up and be honest about myself, and I loved how every session I felt like I was going to see a friend rather than a coach. I really enjoyed your chatty, informal approach and also how patient you were when I was running at least 15 minutes late for each session. And the fact that you understood what I was like, you just took it for who I was.
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Ellen – feedback from a graduate career client
Informal, friendly advice. I felt I could be myself and give honest answers to your questions, knowing that it was confidential. I also liked that you were positive about everything and that you didn’t laugh at my ideas or aspirations.
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Ben – feedback from a young professional – Destination Law
There is no doubt that choosing a lasting career isn’t easy. There are those who would argue that they had always known what they would do from the youngest age, or for as long as they were seriously considering a career at any rate. And for a while I was one of them. Law; it seemed straightforward enough. In particular, I desired to become a criminal defence solicitor, perhaps even a barrister, inspired by all those great bastions of legal folklore. You hear about them on the news and see them represented in drama by great actors such as John Thaw. But the system changed in the eight years between my GCSEs and my graduation from law school – or at least to a young and still naïve mind such as mine, the job with which I had fallen in love during my time working with a family friend within the profession.
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Marc – feedback from a career changer
I found the Highlands Ability Battery test to be a very powerful tool in assessing my strengths and weaknesses and was very impressed by the in-depth analysis of the results of this. I also enjoyed the values exercise which clarified what I want from a work situation very effectively. The environment analysis was also useful as were the Myers-Briggs and Strong assessments.

On a personal level I found it to be a very relaxed and informal environment where I could be myself and express my thoughts without being made to feel foolish. I thought you listened very well and empathised with my situation whilst also offering sound and practical advice. I greatly enjoyed the sessions and found them all useful.
Click here to read the feedback letter

Rona – feedback from a mid career client
During our sessions Denise was informative and encouraging. She listened and provided objective feedback. There was no criticism only an understanding that everyone is different with differing abilities and desires in life. Moreover the sessions were fun and interactive.

When I first sought Denise’s help I was unclear about the way forward in my life as well as my career. For me reaching 40 was a half way stage in life and a good opportunity to reflect back on my past career/lifestyle as well as to learn more about myself in terms of my abilities and personality. I particularly liked taking the psychometric tests online as I found this more relaxing. I could split them up over a period of time. The system was easy to use and informative. I felt it was invaluable to have carried out the pre-assessment for the Highlands and then compare this with the actual results afterwards.
Click here to read the feedback letter

Alan – feedback from a senior executive client
The approach was always professional, but in a relaxed environment. Felt at ease and although we made appointments I never felt rushed or stressed. Outside of the more formal processes and delivery required by the various tests, I liked the fact that you offered ideas and suggestions. Your considerable experience in the real world and your personable attitude meant that the sessions were never just a clinical feedback on the test results alone. The loan of your software and books to help me move ideas forward was a nice gesture and beyond expectation.

Your professional experience and qualifications made a big difference in my search for a coach, but from the sessions I was pleased to learn that you had made a major career change and had real experience of the challenges faced in doing so – I felt that I was working with someone who had not simply changed career to become an “instant” coach, as was the case for many coaches that I researched.
Click here to read the feedback letter

Testimonials about the assessments

Praise for the Highlands Ability Battery: Completing personality assessments is one thing but to understand your natural talents and the differences between the specialist/generalist was truly enlightening. On a personal growth level, I actually think I now view life in a different way regarding people, their talents/weaknesses and how we all experience the world in different ways. Click here to read the feedback letter

Sometimes I get incredibly moved by feedback I receive from clients. I recently worked with a young man who had yet to find the right career path for himself and whose self esteem was dropping as he didn’t think he could do anything. Taking the Highlands Assessment has proved very powerful for him. He says: “I am writing to you to thank you for sparing your time just to help me. I want you to know that I am forever grateful for all your help. I found it really helpful because you opened my eyes and showed me something I never knew about myself.” He is now set to start a level 3 course in music engineering.

“Doing the Highlands with you is definitely one of the best choices I have ever made. I think everyone should do it, young and old, just for the sake of self-understanding and acceptance. Same goes for Myers-Briggs. I DID apply for architecture courses and I've accepted an unconditional offer, starting at the end of next month! In the end, it came down to taking the spatial visualisation issue very seriously, not only because of Highlands, but because I know how frustrated I have felt (very!) when interacting only with information, text, paper and VDU's. Conversely, I know how unexpectedly satisfying it is to work practically, even with no intellectual component (e.g. making coffees). Studying architecture is a choice based both on work I did with you and on experience; it'll be interesting to see how things turn out! Thank you again for your help and I hope I'll have the chance to work with you in the future”.
Andrew, Cheltenham

What might you say to others about this programme? “It’s very helpful, especially to those who are stuck for ideas as it helps you to widen your horizons and think of options you may not have previously considered”.
Lisa Williams

"I just thought that you would be delighted to hear that I have managed to secure an excellent new position with XXXXX Ltd. The role is Key Account Manager for the Midlands and the training, salary, commission, benefits and promotion prospects all seem to be excellent. It will certainly be a challenge which is exactly what I was hoping for. Thank you for your help and support and I am sure that completing the Highland Battery helped to give me the confidence to aim for such a senior position. It’s amazing how much others see in you that you don't see for yourself!"
Jo, Worcester

What might you say to others about this programme? “I would recommend it. I honestly do not believe that testing alone is the “solution”, nevertheless, I believe that to take the battery helped me to re-enforce some perceptions I had about me and I think it gave me a better ideas on what I should improve and where I should focus more. It explained me also some aspects I was completely unaware of. I think I have a better consciousness now of where the frustration is coming from instead of having only the awareness of not being completely satisfied in my job. And it’s not yet to its END!”
Ian G. Derbyshire.

“I now know what I am naturally good at! Having a scientific base to the results has made it very easy for me to accept the results and have confidence in them. It is a great feeling to finally have a reason for falling short of my expectations. This will allow me to create more sustainable goals I the future to my abilities. Every body should complete the HAB and MBTI tests. Thoroughly recommended and I will actively promote your services”.
Alex B, London.

“The sessions helped and how the tests work I don’t know but they do. I wouldn’t have believed that the questions showed up this or that about a person. I felt that some of the things I identified I kind of knew without knowing I know, if that makes sense – e.g. being” good with people” is something a lot of people have said – it haunts me!! But I guess I put it to one side and now have to face that the people industry is where I ought to be. I went to a preview day for the sailing course yesterday and another idea was raised by one of their career people - Yacht chef. I am now considering this versus skipper or mixing both together”.
Alison C. Worcestershire.

“I enjoyed the process of bringing the results of the three inventories together and then assessing the various possibilities. The session has given me new impetus and now I have to put a bit more effort in. the key point is that there are many choices to be made and I need to make them.”
Anthony E, Cumbria.

“The session was very constructive, relaxed, informal, good overview of results, yet able to drill down with more explanation if necessary. I realise now why looking at a blank sheet of paper, trying to come up with ideas is so difficult for me, an why I’m much more adept at sorting out the wheat from the chaff for other peoples myriad of ideas, so if I team up with an ideas person we’ll make good progress. Also I see the proof that I do indeed get more positive strokes from having made something tangible, outside of work and the need that I have to inject music into my everyday life.”
Ray B. Berkshire.

“The high spot was learning about my abilities, this helped me to understand the choices I have made in studying and jobs, why I was drawn to philosophy, (problem solving) but also why I left philosophy to do more hands on activity such as cooking. I have realised that I am not a purely intellectual person, nor a purely practical person; I’ve tried being first the former, then the later, but neither worked. Now I have to try to combine mental activity with some hands on activity. I found your approach very helpful and also entertaining.”
Andrew W, Gloucestershire.

What might you say to others about this programme? “Very useful exercise in getting the person started in looking for a change in career.”
Andrew L Wiltshire.

"I thoroughly enjoyed the process and look forward to cracking on with the rest of the work to find my ideal job/career."
Toby, Berkshire

“I thought the Highlands Ability Battery was amazing. It tested just about everything there was to test and it is impossible to be happy in your career until you understand yourself. This brought out aspects of myself that I had ignored, were latent or were well known to me, making me laugh when I recognised myself. Well worth it and the whole programme of careers analysis really gets you thinking.”
Jacqui, Knutsford

“I had done psychometric tests before at job interviews, but never encountered anything as wide ranging as this. The ability to upload the results and instantly download the report added to the spontaneity. I found the programme, structured, flexible, logical, and non judgemental and enlightening”.
Julian W, Gloucestershire.

“The exercise itself made me really evaluate my abilities and think through what I would like to do.”
Tina J, London.

"I just thought that you would be delighted to hear that I have managed to secure an excellent new position with XXXXX Ltd. ... It will certainly be a challenge which is exactly what I was hoping for. Thank you for your help and support and I am sure that completing the Highland Battery helped to give me the confidence to aim for such a senior position. It’s amazing how much others see in you that you don't see for yourself!"
Jo, Worcester

“Excellent method to pinpoint areas of personal growth and broaden the skills to understand and best deal with characters different from your own". “The HAB was the high point for me because it was a true and fair test of what comes naturally to me. I have been able to identify what my strengths could be if I nurtured them. To me, you were very good. I would recommend it to anyone who was not sure what they were good at, an also who needed help in showing what direction to take”.
Nils A, Middlesex

“I liked your approach a lot, very informative, but also tailored it to me, by asking questions at the right points to focus my thinking on how I would apply what I was learning. Lots of learning, but most importantly that abilities are just part of the picture and that what I’ve learned doesn’t mean I have to start from scratch. I can adapt what I do now to make it more effective and enjoyable for me. However, there was so much I could do, there is a lot for me to take in now and use. I can see why you offer the follow up coaching as well, there is just so much. Unlike other assessments which are largely about self assessment I “believe” this one. I really feel that I can make a difference based on what I have learned. I value the results highly, and am very pleased that I took it; however, a large part of this was your excellent approach in the feedback”.
Marie W, Northants.

“Being able to complete the test at home, and then find out my strengths in my abilities has confirmed why I am not suited to my current role and which of my abilities I need to use for job satisfaction ”
Tony L. Manager, Warwickshire.

“The high spot of the assessment was the gradual realisation that I wasn’t making mistakes in my choices and that all I needed to do was to take more account of my abilities and trust my own judgement”.
Roger E, Hampshire.

What might you say to others about this programme? “Be truly honest with yourself. Otherwise all the feedback and encouragement in the world will not help. I wish I had gone through this process earlier”.
Anthony E, Cumbria.

“Very constructive, released, informal, good overview of results, yet able to drill down with more explanation if necessary.”
Mark H, Leicestershire.

“I’ve learnt not to rush into things headlong and to explore other avenues other than the obvious. I like the way this has helped me to see “outside the box.”
Martin, Germany.

“This assessment concentrated on my core skills. It was a very useful exercise in getting the person started in looking for a change in career."
Leo, London.

“What would I say to others: if you ever come to a juncture in your career plans, and even if you are perfectly content with your career you are in, consider taking time out to do this programme and learn about yourself, it might show you where you really should be aiming or perhaps prevent you from making a costly mistake in terms of a promotion that might be a wolf in sheep’s clothing”.
Ben E. Yorkshire.

"Overall I have to say how surprised I was that the test is as accurate as it is. The person you should now the most about would appear to be the person you know the least about. I guess it is a case of not being able to see the wood for the trees. I think once you are stuck in a career groove, it’s very easy to flounder and not see a way out. It's then easy to slip into a negative mind set and following our meeting I came away feeling more positive. Outside professional advice has certainly cleared a path for me as to how to play to my strengths and given me a clarity I didn't have before".
Jane, Runcorn, Cheshire

A fascinating and valuable insight into one’s strengths and abilities, weaknesses and opportunities for improvement. This will serve me well in my career and in my private life. Absolutely worth the money (even though it is a substantial investment). I am going to suggest my son (age 16) takes the test as soon as his GCSEs are over to help him in career development. Thank you!
Paula Mason, Nottingham

“The Critical Career Implications page was extremely useful at the job search stage as it neatly précis’s the main points of the HAB and subsequent discussions. Just thought you'd like to know some further input on your analysis sheet. I went into an agency today and when they asked what kind of job I was looking for, I was able to produce your sheet. The consultant found it most useful, and is going to check out your website”.
Kind Regards Andrew

Testimonials about the MBTI assessment

I had a strong feeling of what areas I fell into but having done the MBTI step2 process I have gained a lot of clarity about where I am and it also made me think about where I want to be. The additional information that you provided is very powerful especially when you start thinking about how to put together a team of people and how you must communicate differently to them all. This would be vital when doing a presentation of any type and trying to estimate what different personalities you have and give the necessary information. This could be to a bank manager, a job interview, or trying to entice investors. Being able to understand others will take practice but will have huge dividends when thinking about the application of this.
Clint Gray

"The reports were great, I have taken the MBTI several times over the past 20+ years and never has the feedback been as helpful as this. Denise, you have given me a better understanding of how my temperament affects both my business and personal life. I believe your personal touch and the explanation of the "MBTI Step 2" has made the difference because of better identifying my strengths and my weaknesses. I really enjoyed when you showed me how I can use the personality traits that are not dominant (traits) to better communicate and make decisions. Very interesting stuff and I find myself already using it in practical application. Sound like an INTJ don't I?"
Bill Robertson, New Mexico, USA

"Thank you for helping me to understand and find out who I am. Before I had never thought of who am I? How am I? And I never knew that it was so important. But now I do. I did do the Keirsey test a few weeks ago but it didn’t help me. The MBTI Step 2 report was much deeper and much detailed and that helped a lot. I think that your feedback call Denise, helped me to identify my strengths and weakness even better. I actually don’t want to call it a feedback call. I want to say it was a consultation call. You helped me to realize who I am, how I can use my strength in my life. I was confused before because I don’t like my day job and I didn’t understand why but now I have been making some changes and I am making progress. The consultation and the reports have made me understand which career paths suit me. This was my biggest problem before. I don’t want to make it sound like a bragging but after the reports and the call I have been a happier person, because I am using my strengths and trying to make my weakness better".
Mehmet Onatli, Sweden

"I thought the personalized report of the MBTI Assessment was excellent. I got a lot of very insightful tips on maximizing my relationships (business and personal) and productivity which is sure to improve my businesses. In fact, it was so complete that I thought the personal one-on-one session with Denise would mostly be a waste of time.

Little did I know what I did not know. The personal session with Denise filled in a lot of gaps and answered questions I did not even know I needed to ask. Suddenly, things that I had read had a whole new level of meaning and understanding. I highly recommend that you add the personal one-on-one session to the assessment. Denise really helps you complete the picture".
Paul Stork, USA

Testimonials about the Gold Programme

"Thank you for all your help in these decsions. I think on some level i knew what I wanted to do before I came to see you, but I don't think i would ever have clarifed what I wanted or had the courage to make the difficult decisions without your help. Your services have been invaluable to me and i owuld recommend you most highly - in fact i already have! Nuala, Wiltshire

"What I liked most about your career development programme was its comprehensive approach, in that you go way beyond what I would normally expect to find in a vocational guidance course. Serious time and thought is given over to identifying strengths, weaknesses and passions, and it left me in little doubt about the direction I should choose."
Robert White, Watford

“Clear and structured explanations, precise answers to open questions I collected between receiving the report and our feedback session. Positive atmosphere, I liked that. You gave examples about yourself that made it more personals, I liked that. You offered possibilities for follow up. I would recommend it! I honestly do not belief that testing alone is the “solution nevertheless I believe that to take the battery helped me to reinforce some perceptions I had about me and I think it gave a better idea s on what I should improve and where I should focus more. It explained me also some aspects I wasn’t completely aware of. I think I have a better consciousness now of where the frustration is coming from instead of having only the awareness of not being completely satisfied in my job".
Daniela Switzerland.

"Thank you so much for your outstanding career counselling, which way surpassed my expectations. I am so glad I didn't spend thousands of pounds on another programme that would probably have taken six months. I am amazed at how little I knew about my natural abilities, and taking Highlands sorted me out not just for a career change now, but for the rest of my life. I also understand now why I was so unhappy in my previous jobs. I'm looking forward to a bright new career and future, and that is a priceless gift".
Nicole Anderson

"In less than 12 months I have been helped by the programme to change direction and increase my job satisfaction. All this when at a personal low and fighting depression"
Chris, Herefordshire

More than anything else I think my visits to you made me realize that I *did* have the drive to make the change I have now succeeded in making, and that no-one else was going to make it for me, so in that respect "Thank You!".
Tim, Cheltenham

“I enjoyed the session with you yesterday very much and I must say I appreciated the way you helped me find practical ways of “putting my cards on the table”. I found the values exercise particularly helpful... I always try to match jobs vaguely to my interests but have never thought of scoring them, which was quite an eye opener. You are an excellent advisor and facilitator and I would not hesitate to recommend you to friends, relatives or colleagues.”
Victoria W, Bristol.

Testimonials about Sessions

“I liked the clear and structured explanations. The precise answers to the open questions I collected between receiving the report and our feedback session.”
Peter A. Devon.

“I have been impressed by the whole service! The high standards continued during the meeting. The relaxed atmosphere helped me focus in a difficult subject. Having the conversation taped allowed me to relax and not worry about making notes. Email communication has been good, with fast responses to my questions.”
Will A. Berkshire.

“I liked the feeling that we weren’t rushed. It felt relaxed and open. I’ve learnt that, within reason, a lot is possible”.
Kira W Worcestershire

“I liked the fact that you were so helpful and kind. I really appreciated your genuine desire to help. The whole process made me realise how much I need the change I am daring for. Through the procedure we concluded to professions that were in agreement with what my intuition had been telling me all along. It really helped me and I do certainly recommend it”.
Eleni P, Greece.

“It’s very relaxed, and I feel able to discuss all issues without feeling like you are judging me. You are also very patient. Finding out what I want out of life with regards to all areas not just my work. I have found out that it is all the other areas in your life that can have a big effect on what you want to do with your career”.
Peter, Wiltshire.

“You helped me so much over the past few months and I want to let you know how much I value what we did together, I feel like I know myself and my values 100% better like they were always there but I just needed help discovering them for myself”.
Ellie, North America.

“Thanks for all your help Denise. Whilst I think that our work has in many ways confirmed what I already knew about myself, the real value has been in giving me the confidence to pursue a different direction based on your independent, profession (and friendly!) assessment and guidance.”
Paul F, Worcestershire.

Thank you for everything, I was really pleased with my performance yesterday even if don't get to the next stage I came away feeling very positive.
Sharon Atherton

“Thank you so much for all your help. It has been a great experience; not only by identifying career opportunities, which I'm really enthusiastic about but also unexpectedly helping me to discover myself. It is now easier for me to appreciate who I am and accept that it is OK to be who I am. So thank you - I will be in touch again very soon!”
Lisa, Cheltenham

"I thought that career counselling would be a quick fix for a particular obstacle I had to overcome. But several years down the line, my sessions with Denise still feed into the decisions I make about my working life. The unexpected eye-opener was pinpointing exactly what I DON'T want from a working situation and I've gone from a bored, 'henpecked' employee to a freelancer doing a job I love."
Frankie P, Amsterdam/London

"You are an excellent advisor and facilitator and I would not hesitate to recommend you to friends, relatives or colleagues. It was great to work with you, Denise. I really appreciated your supportive, non judgmental, 'can do' attitude to addressing what had initially felt like a real tangle of issues."
Victoria Walters, Final Year Student, Bristol

"Thank you again for your time, I have found it very helpful.”
Clare, Cheltenham

"You've helped me a great deal through a difficult time ...many, many thanks again; you're great at what you do".
Marian.

“Thank you again for the support and encouragement you gave me when we worked together this time last year. The good news is that quitting teaching before having another job lined up was not the bumpy ride I was expecting. Despite one sulking Dad and numerous interviews that I managed to cock up, I started a new career at the beginning of Feb - working for a mental health charity in Gloucester where I am managing and delivering a coping and development programme to inmates at Gloucester prison. I'm loving it!!! You were right about the salary issue - it doesn't matter - I am now trying to live happily on £15k. I am so glad I made this move as I do feel like a different person. A friend of mine in London has just told me she has resigned from her City job due to feeling so worn out! Anyway, I shall continue to recommend you to others who are a little bit lost. Best of luck!”
Emma Gibb

“Thank you so much for your help and support and being there!”
Helen W. Bristol.

“What this counselling with you helped me achieve was to be more sure of myself and that it was ok to want the things I wanted however grandiose or simple they were. The values exercise was especially revealing. I’m very glad I did it. Thank you!”
Francesca, Netherlands.

“Last night I went to bed on a bit of a buzz, what a fantastic phone call! You are really good about what you’re doing”
Robert Bate, New Zealand.

“Thanks for your time yesterday, I found it really useful talking with someone independently about things. I feel like I have finally started the process of taking control of my life – my natural tendency to procrastinate has prevented this for the last 4 months.”
Andrew D. Oxfordshire.

“It was great to work with you; I really appreciated your supportive non judgemental “can do” attitude to addressing what had initially felt like a real tangle of issues.”
Nial H, Gloucestershire.

"Sessions with you are so insightful, I know more about myself than I could have imagined."
Cathy, Cardiff

"I found you a powerful listener who asked thought provoking questions"
Emily J, London

"You took the time to understand me; your service wasn't a conveyor belt but a support and guide."
Philip Watson, Lincoln

"It was good to talk through my options with some one who listens well and can give such objective feedback."
Philip N, Leicestershire

"Denise's help has been invaluable and she has helped me to understand my values and qualities. From this, I have developed a better understanding of both my life and career goals. The sessions have enabled me to focus on all aspects of my life and helped me develop an overall action plan that enables me to focus on both my career and personal life."
Chris, Midlands

“My update is that I'm currently enjoying being back at the Hospital in new role, home life is much better, as being far more open. I must put a lot of credit your way for making me rethink life as a whole and I'm glad to report much more positive over last 12-18 months."
Chris H, Staffordshire.

Denise, many thanks for your message. Just to let you know, I have now got the flying job I wanted and am flying in Namibia. As for the next change in career, I’ll let you know.
Regards, Dave

What did you like about our sessions: I found them very enjoyable and informative. You are easy to talk to. I particularly liked the way you allowed me space to explore my own thoughts, as well as guiding me gently back to the subject at hand if I strayed too far off on a tangent!
John Walters

What did you like about our session: Good to have a chance to ask questions about the reports. It clarified the results making it more personal.

1 hour sessions

The help provided bt AMAZING PEOPL was just brilliant, and it started to make me think more clearly - to see a path through a rather nasty mine field - John Stretton

I found our meeting so useful! I used your proforma letter requesting an informational interview and sent it to the local Health Prommotion Unit, and have a meeting with them next Tuesday! Thanks again Carol Julian

I found my session with you extremely helpful. You listen attentively, turned negative thoughts into positive ones and helped me see there was some light at the end of the tunnel. You helped me extract the important information from my muddled mind and made very useful suggestions for possible future jobs. I found talking to a relative stranger really helpful as you can provide suggestions without having pre conceived ideas about jobs that would suit my personality. I can't think of anything negative because I found the whole experience, motivating, confidence building, informative and fun!
Louise Jennings

"Denise made me feel at ease so I could talk to her about anything! If you talk to close friends and family, you might miss things out that are worrying you about your job, so that you don’t worry them, and of course they’ll usually agree with what ever you say. Of course with Denise’s experience as a careers counsellor she could offer great advice, as well as make you laugh and see that you do have a lot of qualities about yourself, and how you can put them to practice. I feel more focused on what I want to do now, and will be meeting with Denise again to help me through the processes! "
Rebecca Gorman

"So thank you very much for what was a supremely helpful point to focus on. It was very easy to talk to you and certainly did me good! I may be back if I decide after all to let go of that balloon (and perhaps start chasing a new one labelled "Shoe Shop" or "Writer"; I have started a short story about a shoe shop, which may be as close as I ever get! I will let you know how that goes, too)."
Catherine, Herefordshire

"Many thanks for the session today - it helped provide some very useful clarity on my situation. I feel that I have a much clearer idea of what I can do in order to shape my career the way I want to, and you've pointed out some tools and behaviours to enable me to achieve this both in the short and longer term. Overall, a very positive experience - it's amazing what 1 hour on the phone can achieve!"
Emma, Policy Advisor Cambridge

"I just wanted to say a big thank you for my session yesterday, I really helped talking to you and I feel like your guidance has finally set me on the path to finding my proper career. I'm going to follow your plan and I will let you know how I get on. I'm considering doing the Highland Battery test, but I'll see how I get on with the information you provided me yesterday. If something really jumps out then I will go from there! I will be in touch and many, many thanks again!"
Kelly, Gloucestershire

"Thank you for the session yesterday afternoon. You gave me some valuable advice about how to approach my job search, in particular to focus on what I really want to do and not be sidetracked by what I don't, to try and identify the skills I have acquired thro life rather than work and apply them to the workplace, and to be more pro-active in my methods. Thank you also for the sample letter you sent this morning. I shall try to use it, suitably amended, in approaching potential employers. I will certainly consider coming to you for further assistance if I am unsuccessful in finding a job in the near future."
Ross, Herefordshire

"This was only a brief session but it has helped me change my thinking in a subtle way and I feel I can approach my job search from new angles."
Maurice, Gloucestershire

"I found the session helpful because it helped me begin to focus my thinking on a way forward and gave me confidence to start searching in the right areas for my profile and personality."
Ray, Gloucestershire

CV guide

"I was so impressed by the support Denise gave me - most unexpected. Quick as well as honest and valuable. The 'Create a CV' e-book is full of first class hints and tips many of which I've never come across anywhere else. The work we did together gave me every chance for success - in my first attempt for 27 years!"
Martin Haworth www.coaching-businesses-to-success.com

"I found the CV guide really useful. I really like how the questions helped to extract the important points from each job I have had. From that it was easy to see a common thread from the jobs I have done and the skills/attributes which were required to achieve things within those positions."
Fiona C, Worcester

"The good thing about the CV guide is that it asks all the relevant questions for you. Otherwise you would have to think up the questions yourself and then find the answers as well!" Basically, I thought it was really good; it didn't feel like hard work. Before you know it, from answering the questions in the booklet, you soon have more than enough information to build your CV. The advice is really good, and it raises a lot of points I had never considered previously, such as writing "would like a job with good opportunities for career progression" etc., which obviously sounds bad to the employer. I guess it is an insight into how a potential employer might view an application. The best thing, in my opinion, is the secret world of achievement bullets!
Danny Gray Computer Specialist

"Your Create a CV Guided Workbook has been very helpful and informative" Stephen W, Gloucestershire

Job Search Support

Job Search programme "I am really enjoying the Job search programme (even though I must admit not to getting very far) I am writing my CV at the moment. The audios are brilliant too.

I must admit since starting this programme I have more confidence and after our last phone conversation I started to write to companies expressing my interest in doing work experience etc, I just wanted to build up networks".
Kate Ruddick, Graduate

"Working through the application from I learned how to better interpret what employers would be expecting from it. I have a better understanding of employers’ recruitment methods and criteria. I found it very relaxed, friendly and informal. It was extremely helpful and offered real direction and steps for progress. Regular follow ups and further advice is really helpful keeping you on track and feeling supported"
Tim H, Gloucestershire.

"Brilliant help with my job search. I now have a great CV and have appreciated your support in finding a new job. Your confidence in my abilities helped me keep my spirits up."
Helena Fox, Cardiff

"Once again, thank you for your amazing program and your altogether present support. Although I only progressed down the very start of your Job search program's path, I got a sense that this was going the right way and your email support really made a difference".
Sam D. London

"Thank you so much, you helped me get my CV sorted, and I wouldn't have got the job without your help"
Carolyn W.

Job Search programme "I am really enjoying the Job search programme (even though I must admit not to getting very far) I am writing my CV at the moment. The audios are brilliant too.

Interview Guide: After reading the first part of your book I have now managed to write the answer to “tell me about yourself” hurrah!
Sandra, Worcester

Students and Parents say:

“It is a journey of discovery; you make many fascinating realisations about yourself along the way. The knowledge you acquire will benefit you for the rest of your life. As for me I have found the programme invaluable in making decisions about my future degree course at university.”
Rebecca Crowther

“It was difficult for myself as a parent to be able to confidently advise and guide my daughter in her post A level education. She was a good all rounder and had absolutely no idea what she wanted to do. It was such a relief to discover Denise who is such a knowledgeable and caring career expert. I am now confident that Rebecca is moving in the right direction.”
Carol Crowther (Mother to Rebecca).

“Still unsure of the route to pursue, a year after graduation, I considered previous careers guidance limited and confusing. Denise was a breath of fresh air. She offers a very personal and unique programme, which is far more than standard careers advice. It enabled me to explore personal strengths, to gain a clear understanding of the way in which I interact with others and to discover the most appropriate working environment for me.”
Naomi Durston

“This programme has given my daughter a much clearer insight into the way in which she works and a deeper understanding of the working environment to which she is best suited.”
David Durston (Father to Naomi).

"If I had only known this when I was doing my GCSEs I would have got much better results"
N.H.

"If i had known this information before university I would have chosen a different degree subject"
K.L.

"Thanks so much for doing this programme with Natalie; I can understand why she doesn't seem to listen. She takes in information better when it is written down"
Julie (Mother to 17 year old Natalie).