Can we be both commercially focused and human at work?

We talk a lot about human-centric leadership – putting people, culture and inclusivity at the heart of business. Yet in today’s competitive world success is still often associated with being results-focused and aggressive, which can seem like the opposite of human. Is it possible to put humanity at the heart of what we do without sacrificing performance?

Drawing upon coaching principles, HUMAN-WISE offers a unique practical framework to help you explore these ideas for yourself, and then apply them to others around you. Helen Wada is an experienced business development leader and executive coach who specializes in developing human-centric commercial leaders. With her business, The Human Advantage, she brings core coaching skills to life, linking them to a commercial focus. This book will transform how you approach conversations and help you build the resilience you need to be successful, in business and in life.

HUMAN-WISE is an essential read for any leader looking to develop themselves, grow their business and build a more human working world.

‘A timely and refreshing take on leadership.’ – Marshall Goldsmith

‘HUMAN-WISE represents a vital resource: a coaching approach for sustainable success.’ – Phil Smith CBE. Chair Skills England

‘A must-read for anyone who believes the future of business is human.’ – Melissa Geiger, Chair, KPMG UK and Switzerland

‘A fresh approach for business growth.’ – Roisin Hennerty, Non-Executive Director

‘A practical and human-centered guide for building trust and creating lasting success in today’s complex world.’ – Dr. Marshall Goldsmith

‘Essential reading for all commercial leaders.’ – Steven D’Souza, Senior Client Partner, Korn Ferry

‘A must read for executive boards, leadership teams and those looking to grow their business and influence others. Helen puts coaching skills and developing self-confidence right at the heart of winning work and human-centred leadership.’ – Roisin Hennerty, Non-Executive Director, former CEO, Ornua Global Foods Division

‘Shows how leaders can create workplaces where everyone thrives by embracing individuality. This book redefines what it means to lead for impact and humanity.’ – Heather Cahill, Commercial Director, AstraZeneca ANZ

‘A must-have for anyone wishing to understand how the power and balance of coaching while also honing a conscious human focus can produce sustainable results in business, as a leader – and dare I say, in life too.’ – Helen Dann, Head of Talent Development Europe, Samsung Electronics

Introduction: A new way of thinking (and being)

PART 1 – How you show up

Chapter 1: Your authentic best self

Chapter 2: Limiting beliefs – what’s stopping you?

PART 2 – Understanding others

Chapter 3: Building better relationships

Chapter 4: Discover the art of being curious

Chapter 5: Exploring the system

Chapter 6: The power of listening

Chapter 7: Evoke awareness & create insight

Part 3 – Mindset Matters

Chapter 8: Blending a commercial approach with a coaching mindset

Chapter 9: Building Trust & Gaining commitment

Chapter 10: The heart of a coaching approach

Part 4 – Act and Adapt

Chapter 11: Reading the room

Chapter 12: The practice of noticing (including presence)

Chapter 13: Playing the conversation ladder

Part 5 – Next steps

Chapter 14: Getting to action

Chapter 15: Building resilience

Chapter 16: Empowering others

Bibliography & further resources

FORMAT / ISBN / PUBLICATION DATE / RRP

Paperback / 9781788608497 / March 3, 2026 / £14.99

Hardback / 9781788608480 / March 3, 2026 / £24.99

Ebook / 9781788608503 / March 2, 2026 / £7.99

Paperback and eBook Bundle / £16.99

Helen Wada

Helen Wada is an experienced executive coach, a chartered accountant turned business development consultant. Formerly a Global Client Director at KPMG, she provides a fresh perspective to commercial leadership training and coaching across a range of top-tier organizations through her business The Human Advantage. She also hosts the Human Wise podcast.