The role of third generation coaching in response to technological changes in South Africa

Abstract

Ongoing technological change is often synonymous with Bennet and Lemoine’s concept (2014) of Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity (VUCA). The role of leadership is critical to ensuring sustainable responses to these changes (Schwab et al., 2018). A ‘third generation of coaching ‘fit-to-purpose’ to accommodate ongoing change is required (Grant, 2017). One that evolves and matches the complexity of the coaching challenges encountered. Reinhard Stelter’s (2014) narrative coaching approach was explored. Furthermore, consideration to how the learning within a narrative coaching frame might enable more conscious, collective response to ongoing change. The study considered the coaching dialogue and opportunity for dual-learning. The potential for coaching in terms of encouraging personal leadership. The study used a phenomenological research design, to explore the perceptions and experiences of seven narrative coaches, within the South African business context. Like any change, technological change and the disruption it brings, creates initial anxiety and fear (Schein, 2010). Through deep reflection of stories, facilitated through the coaching relationship, a process of ‘slowing down’, allows the anxiety, fear and the disconnect associated with technological change to be externalised. There is a grounding of the executive, within their essence of ‘self’. Thus, an empowering takes place, through examination of identity and ‘self as system’. Third generation coaching allows consideration to learning as evolving. It is not static, is not simple, a quickfix, or easily measured. It is recommended that measurement and evaluation of learning outcomes be considered within the consciousness and collective identity of the coachee. Through focus on self, deep reflection and a new way of thinking, third generation coaching offers an integrated learning experience, one connecting elements within self. This creates an opportunity to view change, technological or other, as possibility.worldwide.