The Art of Listening in Coaching and Mentoring

It is strange that sometimes the very foundation of our practice is taken for granted. We become fascinated with things as complex as the processes in the brain but tend to overlook the obvious - the role of listening in our work. Stephen Burt does not. His book is a systematic exploration of the various elements of, and conditions for, good listening with a useful structure to guide understanding. Not just an opinion-based text, it is supported by a wide range of relevant conceptual and research-evidenced sources. It will be an important asset for a serious beginner in the coaching field but can also challenge some of the unquestioned assumptions held by seasoned practitioners. Professor Tatiana Bachkirova, Director of the International Centre for Coaching and Mentoring Studies at Oxford Brookes University Stephen Burt provides a comprehensive exploration of the skill of listening; why we should do it, how we should do it and the impact it can make on our conversation practice. This is an essential read for coaches, consultants, managers, and anyone who wants to communicate effectively with others, on a topic which is too often neglected . Dr Jonathan Passmore, Director of Henley Centre for Coaching, Henley Business School, University of Reading We often take for granted that we know what listening is and how to do it. Stephen's book is an important reminder of both the science and art of listening, and of the inner work coaches must do to develop their listening capacity. This engaging and well-written book is full of wisdom and reflections - for both new and seasoned coaches. Aboodi Shabi - Lecturer in Coaching and Behavioural Change - Henley Business School