Co-Active Coaching

Synopsis

The definitive edition - updated and expanded, with access to an online toolkit.

'The bible of coaching guides...No other book gives you the tools, skills, and the fundamentals needed to succeed in these delicate relationships.' Stephen R. Covey, Author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

Co-Active Coaching offers current and aspiring coaches, leaders and managers in organisations and anyone wanting to strengthen interpersonal relationships, a practical, yet transformative communication process called the Co-Active Model. Since its creation by the authors more than 25 years ago, the Co-Active Model and the book have formed the foundation of the authors' six-part coach training program delivered globally to tens of thousands of individuals each year through the authors' training institute, CTI.

With its origins in the coaching profession, the Co-Active Model also applies to work and interpersonal relationships because it is based on principles of effective communication backed by current scientific research. In this highly-anticipated new edition, the universal applicability of the the Co-Active Model is emphasised. It goes beyond the one-on-one coach/coachee structure to include guidance for leaders and managers on how they can add a coaching competency to their professional skill set.

New to this edition:

· Every chapter has been updated for relevance and direct application to coaching in all of its forms, including in the workplace
· New material covering: current neuroscience research, Co-Active approaches to leadership development and working with groups and teams
· More examples drawn from the authors' first-hand experiences, especially in workplace settings
· More examples of the Co-Active Model applied internationally
· Updated/fine-tuned glossary (less jargon)
· Web-based 'Toolkit' with 27 exercises, questionnaires, checklists, and reproducible forms

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Summary

Chapter 1: The Art and Science of Coaching

* Defines coaching as a partnership between a coach and client, where the coach supports the client in achieving their goals.
* Describes the four core principles of coaching: holism, process, collaboration, and impermanence.
* Real example: A coach helps a client identify and overcome their limiting beliefs by exploring their values, strengths, and past experiences.

Chapter 2: The Coaching Conversation

* Outlines the three key elements of a coaching conversation: presence, listening, and questioning.
* Explores different types of questions, including open-ended, closed-ended, and reflective questions.
* Real example: A coach uses active listening to demonstrate that they understand the client's perspective and create a safe and supportive space for them to share their thoughts and feelings.

Chapter 3: Building the Coaching Relationship

* Discusses the importance of establishing trust and rapport in the coaching relationship.
* Provides guidelines for setting clear boundaries and goals, and for maintaining open communication.
* Real example: A coach and client work together to create a coaching agreement that outlines their roles and responsibilities, as well as the expected outcomes of the partnership.

Chapter 4: The Co-Active Model for Change

* Introduces the Co-Active Model for Change, a five-stage process designed to help individuals create and sustain change.
* Each stage involves specific activities and interventions to support the client's journey.
* Real example: A coach uses the Co-Active Model to help a client transition into a new career by exploring their values, identifying obstacles, and developing a plan for overcoming them.

Chapter 5: Navigating Complexity and Paradox

* Acknowledges the inherent complexity and paradox of the coaching process.
* Discusses the importance of embracing uncertainty, promoting self-discovery, and fostering resilience.
* Real example: A coach helps a client navigate a difficult work situation by encouraging them to explore multiple perspectives, identify patterns, and develop creative solutions.

Chapter 6: The Art of Inquiry

* Explores the art of asking empowering questions that encourage introspection and promote change.
* Discusses different types of inquiry skills, such as open-ended questions, reframing, and paradoxes.
* Real example: A coach uses paradoxical inquiry to help a client see the potential benefits of a current challenge and to find creative ways to overcome it.

Chapter 7: Holding Space and Creating Momentum

* Emphasizes the importance of holding space for clients to explore their emotions, thoughts, and desires.
* Discusses techniques for creating momentum, such as setting clear goals, providing timely feedback, and celebrating successes.
* Real example: A coach creates a safe and supportive environment for a client to process their grief and to find ways to move forward with their life.

Chapter 8: The Co-Active Approach in the World

* Explores how the principles and practices of Co-Active Coaching can be applied in various fields, including business, education, healthcare, and community development.
* Provides examples of how coaching can be transformative for individuals and organizations.
* Real example: A Co-Active Coaching program is implemented in a school system to support teachers in developing their leadership skills and creating a more positive learning environment.