The Art of Dialogue in Coaching

Book excerpt: Henley Business School's Coaching Book of the Year 2019! In The Art of Dialogue in Coaching, Reinhard Stelter invites readers to engage in transformative and fruitful dialogues in everyday working life, and provides the theory and tools for them to be able to do so. Presented in three parts, the book provides a complete overview of the importance of dialogue and how it can be utilised. Part I, Theoretical basis, examines third-generation coaching as a collaborative dialogue form, the societal context of the coaching process and the concept of identity in modern society. Part II, Basic themes of fruitful dialogue, examines meaning-making, value and the narrative perspective, and their significance in creating a new dialogue culture. Finally, Part III, Reflections on dialogue practice, explores the art of being a supporting dialogue guide, drawing on a number of theoretical perspectives and focusing on developing relational competencies. Stelter emphasises that taking the time to linger opens new possibilities for fundamental self-insight, and clearly explains how dialogue provides us with a framework for acting in the world with personal integrity. The Art of Dialogue in Coaching will be an essential guide for coaches in practice and in training, coaching psychologists and professionals with a coaching role, including mentors, consultants and leaders. In particular, it will appeal to those looking to conduct dialogue as an art form, enhancing their work as a co-creative and collaborative guide.