The art of convening : authentic engagement in meetings, gatherings and conversations / by Craig and Patricia Neal ; with Cynthia Wold.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Neal, Craig.

Contributor:

Neal, Patricia, 1953-

Wold, Cynthia.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Business meetings.

Meetings.

Communication in organizations.

Group facilitation.

Physical Description:

1 online resource (xiv, 198 p.) : ill.

Edition:

1st ed.

Other Title:

Authentic engagement in meetings, gatherings, and conversations

Place of Publication:

San Francisco : Berrett-Koehler Publishers, 2011.

Language Note:

English

System Details:

text file

Summary:

"Meetings are a waste of time," is a sentiment many of us share, which is tragic, because meetings bring us together as human beings. To achieve the kind of meaning or breakthrough results most of us really year for when we gather, the key quality needed is authentic engagement: a genuine expression of what is true for us, and an attentive listening to what is true for others. Why it so often eludes us can be a matter of habit, distrust, lack of attention, or fear. As co-founder of Heartland Inc., Craig and Patricia Neal have led over 170 of their acclaimed Thought Leader Gatherings with leaders from over 800 diverse organizations. Their new book shares for the first time the unique and powerful Art of Convening model -- developed in these gatherings and refined over six years of intensive trainings -- that brings authentic engagement and meaning to any group brought together for any purpose. Convening goes beyond facilitating. Convening creates an environment in which all voices are heard, profound exchanges take place, and transformative action results. The heart of this book is the Convening Wheel -- a series of nine steps, or Aspects, that bring the practices and principles needed for authentic engagement together as a whole. The book provides exercises, stories, and questions to help you master both the inner and outer dimensions of this work -- because, in convening, the state of the Convener is equally as important as the physical preparations. Convening works in any setting and can be adapted to virtually any group process. With this book you have all the tools you need to develop this essential life and leadership skill, one that will lead to improved outcomes in your organization, community, family, and relationships.

Contents:

At the heart of the matter

Clarifying intent

The invitation

Setting context

Creating the container

Hearing all the voices

Essential conversation

Creation

Commitment to action.

Notes:

Bibliographic Level Mode of Issuance: Monograph

Includes bibliographical references and index.

ISBN:

9786612960918

9781282960916

1282960911

9781605096698

1605096695

OCLC:

785648263