Product Description

Appreciative Coaching describes an approach to coaching that is rooted in Appreciative Inquiry. At its core the Appreciative Coaching method shows individuals how to tap into (or rediscover) their own sense of wonder and excitement about their present life and future possibilities. Rather than focusing on individuals in limited or problem–oriented ways, Appreciate Coaching guides clients through four stages—Discovery, Dream, Design, and Destiny—that inspire them to an appreciative and empowering view of themselves and their future.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #219788 in Books
• Published on: 2007-03-16
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 272 pages

From the Inside Flap
Appreciative Inquiry evolved in the 1980s as a positive philosophy to guide change in organizations. The philosophy is based on the assumption that inquiry into and dialogue about strengths, successes, hopes, and dreams is itself a transformational process.

Appreciative Coaching describes an approach to coaching that is rooted in Appreciative Inquiry. At its core the Appreciative Coaching method shows individuals how to tap into (or rediscover) their own sense of wonder and excitement about their present life and future possibilities. Rather than focusing on individuals in limited or problem–oriented ways, Appreciative Coaching guides clients through four stages—Discovery, Dream, Design, and Destiny—that inspire them to an appreciative and empowering view of themselves and their future.

Based on the broad and varied experiences of the authors, Appreciative Coaching is filled with illustrative stories that clearly demonstrate how this method works. Appreciative Coaching weaves theory with practical, hands–on knowledge, including tools and concrete steps for incorporating this proven method into any existing coaching practice.

Using this approach, coaches will discover new ways to flourish in their practices and with their clients by affirming and recognizing a spirit of inquiry that brings forth the best in others.

From the Back Cover
Praise for Appreciative Coaching

"The authors have done a marvelous job of bringing appreciative inquiry to coaching. This is must reading for any coach who wants to help clients tap their full potential and make a difference in the world."
—Robert E. Quinn, M. E. Tracy Collegiate Professor, Ross School of Business, University of Michigan

"Appreciative Coaching is chock–full of useful methods, ideas, and stories that will inspire and inform effective coaching practice. Built on a solid research foundation, the book reframes coaching as a transformative, appreciative practice and provides valuable guidance for all potential and current coaches who want to have impact."
—Jane E. Dutton, William Russell Kelly Professor of Business Administration, Ross School of Business, University of Michigan

"Whether you are a coach, manager, or consultant, this is a book you don′t want to miss. It presents an in–depth look at a new model of Appreciative Coaching that integrates theory and practice into an evidence–based coaching approach. Imagine the energy and learning for your client or organization as you explore and build upon success! It′s not only a concrete method for coaches to use but also a great resource to add to your business or personal library."
—Diane Brennan, vice president,International Coach Federation 2005 and 2006

About the Author
Sara L. Orem is adjunct professor of management in the graduate programs at Capella University and principal of Lotus Coaching. She has presented programs in Appreciative Inquiry at OD Network and the Transformative Learning Conference.
sorem@appreciativecoaching.com

Jacqueline Binkert is an executive coach and organization development consultant with extensive experience supporting leaders and other professionals to create positive change. She works in such industries as manufacturing, service, finance, and healthcare.
jbinkert@appreciativecoaching.com

Ann L. Clancy specializes in executive coaching, strategic planning, and organizational change, using positive methodologies to create positive change. Her clients include corporations, government agencies, community organizations, and small business.
aclancy@appreciativecoaching.com

Customer Reviews

Helping People to Flourish
Appreciative Coaching: A Positive Process for Change is a very readable and engaging contribution to the field of coaching.

The book begins with an overview of Appreciative Coaching and the positive psychological context from which it takes its inspiration. The first half focuses on five principles of Appreciative Inquiry (AI) which are "like the warp threads on the loom" (37) and form the foundation of Appreciative Coaching. Readers are taken through the process of Appreciative Coaching in the second half of the book.

To help readers to understand the underlying principles of AI, the authors consider postmodern thought and social constructionism in Chapter 1. This is followed by a discussion of the assumptions upon which the methodology is based. Chapter 2 also surveys a number of other positive approaches, including Positive Organisational Scholarship (POS) and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). Chapters 3 and 4 consider the five principles of AI: constructionist, positive, simultaneity, poetic and anticipatory.

The authors then focus clearly on the Appreciative Coaching process for the rest of the book. Chapter 5 presents a useful overview of the process while Chapters 6-9 cover each of the four stages: discovery, dream, design and destiny. The final chapter, entitled "Stepping into Appreciative Coaching", offers some tools and techniques to support coaches who want to incorporate the methodology into their own practice.

Who should read this book:
This book is valuable reading for anyone involved in coaching. It is essential for coaches who wish to use Appreciative Inquiry as a model for coaching conversations.

Summary:
This book is immensely readable and very accessible. The context of positive psychology is clearly outlined and the debt to this area of work is acknowledged. Overall, the case for Appreciative Coaching is well-researched and presented through a good balance of reference to existing scholarship, case studies and personal anecdote. The case studies are relevant and enlightening, serving to bring the process and principles to life.

In their final paragraph, the authors share their own aspirations: "flourishing is important to our clients, to the country, and to the world. If we as coaches find ways to help people flourish, we will have done our jobs well" (201). This book certainly supports their dream by advocating a powerful coaching process which can "create meaningful work lives that are both life affirming and inspirational" (25).