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Melvin Smith, Ellen VanOosten, PhD, and Richard Boyatzis

Coaching can inspire and motivate people to learn, change, and be effective leaders, among other roles in life. Although most attempts are “coaching for compliance” (coaching someone to your wishes or expectations), decades of behavioral and neuroscience research show us that “coaching with compassion” (coaching someone to their dreams and desires) is more effective.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Week 1: How do people really help others?
The best coaches develop resonant relationships, which involve the experience of hope and compassion and the arousal of meaning. We explore how effective coaches inspire others, and use an approach based on compassion rather than compliance to promote positive, enduring change in their coachees. We then turn to Intentional Change Theory (ICT) as a model of sustained, desired change at all levels of human endeavor; detailing the five discovery phases that comprise ICT. Finally, we explore the Positive and Negative Emotional Attractors (PEA and NEA), their relationship to the Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Nervous Systems (SNS and PNS), and how arousal of either of these systems can deferentially lead to either feelings of negativity and fear, or a focus on one's strengths and the excitement of experimenting with something new.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores evidence-based coaching techniques for fostering positive change
Led by respected instructors who are renowned in coaching
Incorporates neuroscience and positive psychology principles, providing a comprehensive understanding of coaching
Emphasis on ethical considerations in coaching ensures responsible practices
Covers advanced topics such as ideal self coaching, emotional contagion, and social identity groups
Equips participants with strategies to establish a culture of coaching in organizations

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Reviews summary

Coaching with compassion and science

According to learners, this course offers a transformative perspective on coaching, emphasizing coaching with compassion grounded in neuroscience and psychological theory. Students found concepts like PEA/NEA, the Ideal/Real Self, and empathy particularly insightful and applicable. While some felt certain sections were a bit theoretical or wished for more practical examples, the course structure is generally considered well-organized, providing a solid foundation for inspiring learning, leadership, and change.
Offers an inspiring new perspective.
"This course was transformative! The neuroscience explanations behind coaching were eye-opening."
"Truly inspiring! Changed my perspective on helping others. The framework of coaching with compassion versus compliance is fundamental."
"Inspired me to approach leadership differently. The focus on resonant relationships and compassion aligns perfectly with modern leadership needs."
Coaching concepts grounded in science.
"The neuroscience explanations behind coaching were eye-opening. I immediately started applying the PEA/NEA concepts in my conversations."
"Solid course on coaching fundamentals grounded in science."
"Inspired me to approach leadership differently. The focus on resonant relationships and compassion aligns perfectly... The scientific basis makes it credible."
Applicable models for coaching and change.
"I immediately started applying the PEA/NEA concepts in my conversations. The Ideal Self/Real Self framework is powerful."
"Good introduction... the core ideas like listening beyond words and empathy are very practical."
"The ideal/real self distinction was useful, as was the part on empathy. Found the neuroscience a bit dense."
Some parts felt theoretical or dense.
"Some parts felt a bit theoretical, but the core ideas like listening beyond words and empathy are very practical."
"Found the neuroscience a bit dense. Expected more hands-on practice scenarios."
"The concepts are interesting, but sometimes felt a bit repetitive. The ideal/real self distinction was useful..."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Conversations That Inspire: Coaching Learning, Leadership and Change with these activities:
Review neuroscience and psychology
Establish a strong foundation in neuroscience and psychology to enhance your understanding of the physiological and cognitive aspects of coaching.
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  • Review key concepts in neuroscience, including the brain's structure and function.
  • Explore psychological theories related to motivation, emotions, and behavior change.
Create a resource library for aspiring coaches
Establish a valuable resource for your coaching journey by compiling a collection of articles, videos, and books that provide insights into best practices and the latest trends in coaching.
Show steps
  • Identify reputable sources of coaching-related materials.
  • Organize and categorize the materials based on different coaching topics or skill areas.
  • Review and synthesize the materials to identify key insights and best practices.
Read Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman
Gain insights into the importance of emotional intelligence in coaching by delving into Goleman's foundational work.
Show steps
  • Read and summarize the key chapters on emotional intelligence and its components.
  • Reflect on your own emotional intelligence and identify areas for growth.
Four other activities
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Show all seven activities
Engage in peer coaching practice
Enhance your coaching skills by practicing with a peer, providing and receiving constructive feedback to improve your coaching abilities.
Show steps
  • Find a peer who is also interested in practicing coaching.
  • Establish a peer coaching agreement and define your roles.
  • Take turns practicing coaching sessions, focusing on specific skills or areas of development.
Conduct mock coaching sessions
Develop your practical coaching skills through simulated coaching sessions, practicing active listening, empathy, and goal-setting techniques.
Show steps
  • Identify a willing participant to practice coaching with.
  • Establish a coaching agreement and define the session goals.
  • Practice active listening and empathetic responses.
  • Guide the participant through a goal-setting exercise.
Attend a coaching workshop
Expand your coaching knowledge and skills by participating in a structured coaching workshop, led by experienced professionals.
Show steps
  • Research and identify reputable coaching workshops that align with your learning goals.
  • Register for a workshop and actively participate in all sessions.
  • Apply the techniques and strategies learned in the workshop to your coaching practice.
Develop a coaching case study
Deepen your understanding of coaching principles and their practical application by creating a detailed case study that analyzes a real-world coaching experience.
Browse courses on Case Studies
Show steps
  • Select a coaching case that demonstrates effective coaching techniques and positive outcomes.
  • Interview the coach and coachee involved in the case.
  • Analyze the case, highlighting key coaching interventions and their impact on the coachee's growth.

Career center

Learners who complete Conversations That Inspire: Coaching Learning, Leadership and Change will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Leadership Coach
As a Leadership Coach, you help your clients to develop their leadership skills and abilities. This course will give you the foundational knowledge and skills you need to help your clients to learn, grow, and achieve their goals. You will learn about different leadership styles, and how to coach your clients to develop their emotional intelligence and self-awareness.
Human Resources Manager
In a role as a Human Resources Manager, you will find yourself coaching employees as part of your day-to-day. This course will provide you with the foundational skills you need to coach employees in a way that inspires them to learn, change, and embrace leadership. With compassionate coaching, you can empower employees to meet their career goals while helping the organization achieve its objectives.
Organizational Development Specialist
As an Organizational Development Specialist, you will often provide coaching and guidance to employees as part of your role. In this course, you will learn about behavioral and neuroscience principles that will help you coach employees more effectively. You will also develop skills in how to create and maintain a culture of coaching within an organization.
Life Coach
In your role as a Life Coach, you will guide your clients through personal and professional challenges. This course will teach you how to establish rapport with your clients, and build trusting relationships that empower them to take ownership of their lives. You will also learn how to develop personalized coaching plans that address your clients' needs and goals.
Career Counselor
As a Career Counselor, you will guide your clients as they navigate their career paths and seek out new opportunities. In this course, you will learn skills for assessing your clients' needs, developing career plans, and providing guidance on job search strategies. You will also learn about the latest trends in the job market.
Educational Consultant
As an Educational Consultant, you will guide students and families as they navigate the educational system. You will help your clients to identify their goals, develop learning plans, and find the right educational resources. In this course, you will gain a deep understanding of the educational system, and learn how to provide guidance that is tailored to the needs of your clients.
Employee Assistance Program Counselor
As an Employee Assistance Program Counselor, you will provide counseling and support to employees who are facing personal or professional challenges. This course will provide you with the skills you need to help your clients address a variety of issues, including stress, anxiety, and depression. You will also learn how to create a safe and supportive environment for your clients.
Diversity and Inclusion Manager
As a Diversity and Inclusion Manager, you will help to create a welcoming and inclusive workplace for all employees. You may be responsible for developing and implementing diversity and inclusion policies, and providing training on topics such as unconscious bias. This course will help you to develop the skills you need to lead and manage diversity and inclusion initiatives within your organization.
Nonprofit Manager
As a Nonprofit Manager, you will be responsible for leading and managing a nonprofit organization. You will need to have a strong understanding of the nonprofit sector, and be able to develop and implement effective programs and services. This course will provide you with the skills you need to lead and manage a nonprofit organization, and to create a positive and productive work environment.
Sales Manager
As a Sales Manager, you will lead and manage a team of sales representatives. You will be responsible for developing and implementing sales strategies, and motivating your team to achieve their goals. This course will provide you with the skills you need to lead and manage a sales team, and to create a positive and productive work environment.
Marketing Manager
As a Marketing Manager, you will lead and manage a team of marketing professionals. You will be responsible for developing and implementing marketing campaigns, and managing the marketing budget. This course will provide you with the skills you need to lead and manage a marketing team, and to create a positive and productive work environment.
Operations Manager
As an Operations Manager, you will lead and manage the day-to-day operations of an organization. You will be responsible for ensuring that the organization runs smoothly and efficiently, and for meeting the needs of customers and clients. This course will provide you with the skills you need to lead and manage an operations team, and to create a positive and productive work environment.
Project Manager
As a Project Manager, you will lead and manage projects from start to finish. You will be responsible for planning, executing, and closing projects, and for ensuring that they are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. This course will provide you with the skills you need to lead and manage projects, and to create a positive and productive work environment.
Business Analyst
As a Business Analyst, you will analyze business needs and develop solutions to improve business processes. You will work with stakeholders to identify and define requirements, and develop and implement solutions that meet their needs. This course will provide you with the skills you need to be a successful Business Analyst.
Quality Assurance Analyst
As a Quality Assurance Analyst, you will be responsible for testing and evaluating software and other products to ensure that they meet quality standards. You will work with developers to identify and fix bugs, and will also help to develop and implement quality assurance processes. This course will provide you with the skills you need to be a successful Quality Assurance Analyst.

Reading list

We've selected seven books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Conversations That Inspire: Coaching Learning, Leadership and Change.
Explores the importance of having honest and courageous conversations. It provides a step-by-step guide to having difficult conversations and resolving conflict.
This classic book provides a framework for personal and professional success. It offers practical advice on how to develop good habits and achieve your goals.
Provides a step-by-step guide to the Co-Active Coaching model. It offers practical exercises and tools that can help you develop your coaching skills and achieve your goals.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of coaching and mentoring. It covers the history and development of coaching and mentoring, the different types of coaching and mentoring, and the research on the effectiveness of coaching and mentoring.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of coaching and mentoring. It covers the history and development of coaching and mentoring, the different types of coaching and mentoring, and the research on the effectiveness of coaching and mentoring.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of coaching and mentoring. It covers the history and development of coaching and mentoring, the different types of coaching and mentoring, and the research on the effectiveness of coaching and mentoring.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of coaching and mentoring. It covers the history and development of coaching and mentoring, the different types of coaching and mentoring, and the research on the effectiveness of coaching and mentoring.

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