Episode 203: S2 | How Business Coaching Transformed Tom Kirkham’s Leadership
Introduction
How can business coaching shape a successful entrepreneur? In this episode of the Seven Figure Journey podcast, Tom Kirkham, founder of Kirkham Iron Tech, shares his extraordinary journey of resilience and strategic growth. From overcoming personal challenges to redefining leadership, Tom reveals how business coaching principles helped him scale his IT and cybersecurity company. His insights provide powerful lessons for entrepreneurs seeking growth with purpose and clarity.
Tom’s Journey and Vision
Tom Kirkham’s journey began under challenging circumstances, starting his company, Kirkham Iron Tech, after losing his job during the dot-com bust. With little tech experience, Tom grew his business from a one-person operation to a cybersecurity leader. Initially a way to make ends meet, his company transformed as he learned to work on the business rather than in it. This shift—largely inspired by business coaching insights—allowed him to focus on long-term vision and sustainable growth.
A significant turning point in Tom’s career came when he embraced servant leadership and value-based hiring, realizing that cultivating a supportive work culture was key to scaling effectively. By aligning his team with shared values and a sense of purpose, Tom has not only created a successful business but also laid the foundation for future growth.
Strategic Insights for Entrepreneurs
Tom Kirkham’s approach to scaling is rooted in business coaching principles, which have enabled him to overcome growth challenges with clarity and direction. Here are some actionable strategies he shared:
1. The Power of Delegation
Tom emphasizes the importance of stepping back from day-to-day operations to focus on strategy. Delegating responsibilities to trusted team members is essential, freeing leaders to make high-level decisions and enabling growth.
2. Creating a Culture of Support
Building a culture where employees are empowered and supported is central to Tom’s leadership. He believes in servant leadership, where each team member feels valued, encouraged, and invested in the company’s mission. This approach not only boosts team morale but also drives long-term growth and client satisfaction.
3. Intentional Client Selection
Tom learned that taking on clients who share the company’s values leads to stronger, more fulfilling partnerships. He advocates for intentionally choosing clients who align with your mission, as it creates a harmonious work environment and greater client loyalty.
Current Challenges & Host Solutions
Tom’s current challenges revolve around scaling his business without compromising on culture and quality. As his company grows, he faces the difficulty of managing rapid expansion while maintaining his values and financial stability. In the podcast, the host suggests leveraging structured business coaching to manage these dynamics, highlighting how Elite Entrepreneurs’ approach can provide tools for team alignment and strategic growth. This support could be instrumental in helping Tom achieve his goal of a seamless expansion.
About Tom Kirkham
Tom Kirkham is the founder of Kirkham Iron Tech, an IT and cybersecurity firm specializing in managed security services. With over 25 years in the industry, Tom has become a respected leader, especially known for his value-driven approach and dedication to servant leadership. He is passionate about empowering both his team and clients, helping them achieve success in a secure and supportive environment.
Connect with Tom at kirkhamirontech.com or through his LinkedIn profile for more insights on leadership and cybersecurity.
Conclusion
Tom Kirkham’s journey underscores the transformative power of business coaching in achieving sustainable, purpose-driven growth. From effective delegation to building a resilient culture, his story is a testament to the impact of strategic leadership. For entrepreneurs seeking similar growth, Elite Entrepreneurs Coaching offers the support needed to break through growth barriers, strengthen team alignment, and elevate leadership practices. If you’re ready to take your business to the next level, explore our coaching options.
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