Excerpt

Introduction: The Paradox We Created

People are working, learning, and engaging in social activities remotely now more than ever. Digital technology makes this possible. This technology has enabled people all around the globe to accomplish more with others at a rapid pace. Yet it often fails to satisfy the need for social connection and to fully capture the complexity of our human interactions. This brings up vital questions:

• How is it possible for us to do more together and yet feel less connected?

• How can we minimize misunderstanding and genuinely connect with others when space and movement are restricted to two dimensions?

• What can we do to avoid feeling lost in virtual groups?

• Why do we experience fatigue after prolonged virtual experiences?

• How can we improve our overall wellness when more and more of our interactions are remote?

These are some of the questions raised by the paradox we now face: the technology we use to connect with others often leaves us feeling less connected.

Created by humans to solve human problems, digital technology is having a major effect on our daily lives. While we have gained efficiency, access, and convenience, there is a significant human cost. Technology has changed how humans interact, fundamentally altering dimensions of human connection that are essential to overall wellness. The need for understanding what happens to human connection when we increasingly rely on digital technology to engage with others has never been greater.

Endorsements

“Your book changed my life. I used what I learned to change my routine, and it paid off immediately. I had thought that all my technology overuse had permanently damaged my ability to think and be productive, but now I’m seeing myself reversing the effects of that damage.”
Emily Singer is a user experience research director at AnswerLab

“A team lead’s understanding of the humanizing factors discussed in this book is critical to managing team cohesion, job satisfaction, and personal well-being. This is a highly recommended read for people in charge.”
Mose O’Griffin is the President of Advanced Prototype Engineering

“This book is a must-read if you’re spending a lot of your day on Zoom but still looking to establish and maintain meaningful relationships. Amy and Diane use their diverse backgrounds to explore where there’s room for being human in virtual connections.”
Harper Spero is a business coach

Excerpt

The Impact Paradigm—What It Is

All of us set out to communicate in ways that are relevant to the goals we want to achieve, but sometimes we face challenges along the way.

Ever been in any of these communication situations? 

• Proposing a new plan - How can I gain agreement?

• Speaking in a meeting - How can I express my thoughts clearly and succinctly?

• Presenting to a new group of people - How can I get and hold the group’s attention?

• Updating clients - How can I convey confidence and conviction in my ideas?

• Negotiating a contract - How can I create a trusting relationship and achieve a great result?

• Interviewing for a job - How can I connect with the interviewer and have a genuine conversation?

• Networking - How can I come across as competent and valuable?

• Delivering a keynote speech - How can I engage the entire audience?

Our success in these interactions depends on our ability to communicate effectively to achieve results. 

By applying certain basic principles, we can make informed decisions that will enhance the effectiveness and success of our strategic communication. We can be purposeful throughout an interaction, express our ideas congruently, and enhance our credibility. We can align what we think, say, and do. We can connect with others and engage in dynamic interactions. All of us can communicate with impact and get the results we want. 

Excerpt

Chapter 1: Introduction to Coaching Model Development

There is now an abundant literature on coaching as a way to facilitate the learning and performance of clients, but little has been written about facilitating the learning and performance of coaches. Many of the books and articles describe effective coaching models but few recommend that coaches develop their own approach to coaching, based on their unique combination of strengths.

Whereas coaching helps clients, coaching models help coaches. Coaching is a dynamic interaction that facilitates the learning, development and performance of the person being coached. Coaching models facilitate the learning, development and performance of coaches. 

This chapter presents five basic ideas that are fundamental to understanding coaching models and their development:
1. Coaching models are tools for coaches. 
2. Cultural factors influence coaching beliefs and practices.
3. There is no one right way to coach. 
4. Coaches learn and coaching models evolve.
5. Start from where you are.

Endorsements

“An excellent book for all coaches and coaches-in-training. Lennard provides a foundational overview of coaching approaches and learning theories to encourage coaches to create their own coaching models.” – R.A.
 
“Diane Lennard's book underscores the perspective that developing a personalized model for coaching will enable more success for coaches and ultimately for clients. Her book gives you the opportunity to understand several theories behind coaching, and then allows you to reflect on your own paradigms and models through relevant exercises. The book is easy to navigate and I know I will turn to it time and again as I refine my own practice.” – D.M.
 
“This book provides a unique perspective on examining the cultural frameworks which are in the background of any professional's viewpoint. More importantly, it helps the reader to analyze their experience and use this insight for the client's benefit. A wonderful and original addition.” M.S.
 
"Dr. Lennard puts her considerable experiences coaching corporate clients into this practical guide on coaching models. She gives you an overview of existing coaching models in clear, straightforward language and then shares a perspective for creating your own coaching model. Dr. Lennard shares the evolution of her own very successful "Performance Coaching" model in the last section of the book--an illustrative and practical example. I found it inspiring and would recommend the book to anyone who wants to learn from an expert.” K.B

"Diane Lennard's "Coaching Models: A Cultural Perspective" is a highly welcome addition to the literature. Business leaders, educators, and coaches of all stripes have much to learn from her clear and engaging text.” – F.B.