Full Description
Contemporary writers position 'dialogue' at the heart of change theory, but what do we mean by 'dialogue'? The Tao of Dialogue explains through story what dialogue means, and how to leverage dialogic principles in managing relationships within the workplace.
Accessible and innovative, The Tao of Dialogue explains the basic principles of dialogue, defined as a way of thinking and reflecting together with others, through the story of Michael, the CEO of a company about to embark on a life-changing journey. In the first half of the book, he is introduced to the idea of dialogue by Hannah, an internal change practitioner working within the organisation. He is encouraged to engage in dialogue with those he seeks to influence, which requires him to examine his mindset and proactively make changes to the ways in which he is communicating with his team and the wider organisation. In the second half of the book Michael is assisted by Mark, an external consultant with expertise in working with teams, who helps him apply dialogic principles to leading his team.
Emerging from dialogue between seven experienced, international coaches, The Tao of Dialogue will be of interest to coaches in practice and training, as well as business leaders, HR and L&D professionals and consultants. It explains in simple terms how to transform human relationships, both one-to-one and team/group. It will also appeal to academics and students of coaching, executive development, change management and leadership development.
Contents
Acknowledgements. Introduction. Part One: Michael and Hannah; Chapter 1: Contemplating change; Chapter 2: An introduction to dialogue; Chapter 3; How dialogue works; Chapter 4: Listening; Chapter 5: Listening again; Chapter 6: Voicing; Chapter 7: Reflecting; Part Two: Michael and Mark; Chapter 8: Mark; Chapter 9: Talking to the team; Chapter 10: Mark's 'plan'; Chapter 11: Mark prepares himself; Chapter 12: Setting the scene; Chapter 13: Check-in; Chapter 14: Container-building; Chapter 15: Revolt; Chapter 16: Perturbance; Chapter 17: Patterns; Chapter 18: Breakthrough; Chapter 19: Retrenchment; Chapter 20: Exiting the container; Part Three: Michael, Mark and Hannah; Chapter 21: Reflection; References; Index.
