The Master Coach: Leading with Character, Building Connections, and Engaging in Extraordinary Conversations

What makes a great leader? It might just be approaching leadership as coaching, says executive coach Thompson. Organizational structures have changed and no longer rely on an untouchable, all-powerful leader, he writes; it’s more important to be viewed as an inspiring person of character than to have a fancy title. Thompson explains that a coach can help a leader develop and communicate character with great success, as coaching focuses on the individual rather than the development of the organization. A coach is not a friend, counselor, or mentor, but a person of great character who is also skilled with relationships and conversation—and can transmit this skill to others. In order to help readers develop their coaching abilities—which, Thompson warns, is not easy—he walks them through creating a coaching culture, communicating ethics and values, developing the characteristics of a great coach, and building long-term relationships. Backed with questions for self-reflection, this feel-good, inspirational guide provides a useful framework for readers interested in honing an important skill. [em](Apr.) [/em]