This week we are exploring how to have difficult conversations, looking at a TON of resources on the Connected North website (futurepathwaysnavigator.org), learning about a number of professional role models and then taking a bit of a pause to catch up at the end of the week.
For the Conflict & Connection booklet, we completed the page we hadn't done yet, which was a twelve step list of how to approach difficult conversations. Here is that list:
For the Conflict & Connection booklet, we completed the page we hadn't done yet, which was a twelve step list of how to approach difficult conversations. Here is that list:
- Set a collaborative tone. (Don’t sound angry!)
- Identify the issues. What might be causing the conflict?
- Be aware of yourself. Body language, calm breathing, tone of voice.
- Identify your interests and the other person’s interests.
- Tell your story.
- Hear the other person’s story! LISTEN ACTIVELY.
- Ask purposeful questions. “Can you tell me more about that?”
- Ask questions for understanding. “What do you mean when you say _________?”
- Clarify assumptions. “I thought you would like it if I did that… have I misunderstood?”
- Acknowledge and empathize with emotions.
- Summarize/paraphrase what you have heard.
- Pause to reflect/allow for silence.