Coaching: Evoking Excellence in Others

James Flaherty

Butterworth-Heinemann; 2 edition (23 Sep 2005)

Synopsis
Praise for the first edition: 'As interest in coaching grows, I think Flahertys book will come to stand out as a definitive work' - Peter M. Senge. "Coaching: Evoking Excellence in Others" proposes rigorous methods of practice and self-observation in a relationship of mutual trust, respect and freedom of expression. It will probe you to rethink and possibly undo how you relate to your clients, your partner, your staff, your friends, and how you produce long-term excellent performance in yourself. This 2nd edition includes new chapters on working with the body and what to do when we find ourselves stuck in our coaching efforts. These chapters, have been included to expand the coaches repertory and readiness to step into wider areas of engagement with clients. As with the previous edition these chapters have annotated bibliographies at their conclusion that will assist the reader in continuing their study. The appendix also has expanded list of self-observation exercises and practices as well as additional material that can be used in assessment. This book will act as a learning guide for new coaches and master coaches who want to challenge their methods of partnering with clients.

It is also applicable to managers intending to include coaching in their developmental roles with team members.The author has led workshops in coaching, communication, leadership, and project management for more than 12,000 people. These have included participants from many Fortune 500 companies such as AT&T, FMC, Chrysler, Ernst & Young, Cargill, Levi Strauss and Coopers & Lybrand. This is a new edition of a classic in the field of coaching. It presents the fundamentals of coaching and offers practical ways to implement coaching programs in any organization. It is revised and updated including new material on latest approaches, the effect of technology and other developments in the field.

Reviews 

If you read just one book on coaching...
...this is the best. Flaherty's examination of the philosophical and ethical principles underlying the growing field of personal and business coaching is serious and inspiring. He connects practice and theory in a warm, human way. The suggested reading list after each chapter is one of this book's strongest elements. Excellent.

A deeper look at executive coaching
This book offers a more intellectual look at coaching than most. An interesting mix of philosophy, psychology and business, he has produced an excellent and unpatronising handbook for executive coaches of all levels. I will certainly be integrating a lot of his ideas into my coaching models.

Useful insights
Easy to read, Flaherty's book includes some useful insights, models and exercises. Excellent lists of suggested reading.