Constructive Conversations
How do we have better conversations?
This is the question that drives my research. I analyze the ways communities and organizations foster constructive dialogue and collaborative practices. This helps us see the root causes of organizational culture problems.
FIRST RECOMMENDATION: know your barriers
It turns out that a few barriers are quite common. These include:
derailing and blocking habits (rhetorical decay) in conversation
lack of “big picture” awareness (of shared objectives and values)
lack of stakeholder trust
Second RECOMMENDATION: know your toolbox
In order to overcome these barriers, organizations can:
identify Rhetorical Decay habits in leadership & organizational communications
identify and foreground shared values and priorities among stakeholders
generate trust through a true ethos
SO you found a problem—what now?
Commit to organizational change and leadership growth—and commit to it at all levels, engaging teams from senior leadership to frontline service providers.
Do your homework. Research emerging practices and technologies, and identify precedents for application.
Set up trainings and conversations. Create opportunities to share research findings, collaboratively diagnose challenges, share insights, and troubleshoot.
Set up the channels and systems for continued conversations. Do you have places for feedback on new practices? Ways to report progress? Make it happen.
Aim for abundance. Create abundant opportunities to built new habits, and be charitable with yourself and your collaborators as you strengthen your skills.