Meet Joy
Joy Zalis Kiefer, PhD, is the owner and lead coach/trainer at JZK Coaching and Leadership Development. Joy works with a wide variety of clients seeking individual coaching and specializes in values-based leadership development and effective teamwork. Joy also works with clients navigating transitions, career changes, seeking professional development and guidance in decision-making.
Using a variety of evidence-based strategies, Joy specializes in helping clients gain clarity during times of uncertainty and change, develop their signature presence, sharpen their leadership communication and relational skills as well as build and lead effective teams.
Joy received her PhD in Cultural Anthropology from Washington University in St. Louis in 1999, and has studied and taught about developing positive, prosocial and effective leadership for over 20 years.
Joy developed her expertise within many contexts. She served as a Peace Corp Volunteer in Niger, West Africa and returned to Niger to conduct her Ph.D. research on the power of informal leadership. Joy worked in overseas development consulting before joining the College of Arts and Sciences at Washington University in St. Louis. With a commitment to the educational mission, Joy grew her role to become part of the senior leadership team as an Associate Dean and Director of Undergraduate Research.
Joy has led effective teams in creating and sustaining hallmark programs as well as advised and coached thousands of students with methods that have helped them articulate their goals and realize their full potential. Joy believes that everyone can learn and grow regardless of their starting point with the right strategies and effective practice combined with perceptive feedback from a committed coach.
“Joy is a compassionate listener and insightful thought-partner.” ~D.M. Transitions Coaching
I can help
Increase your self-awareness
Discover your strengths of character and experience the power of knowing, naming and using with intention, the best part of your essential self.
Build your confidence
Experience the confidence that comes with self-awareness, emotional intelligence and embodying your strengths.
Expand your impact
Learn how to leverage your strengths to maximize your impact on those you lead, serve and influence.