This logo isn't an ad or affiliate link. It's an organization that shares in our mission, and empowered the authors to share their insights in Byte form.
Rumie vets Bytes for compliance with our
Standards.
The organization is responsible for the completeness and reliability of the content.
Learn more
about how Rumie works with partners.
Do you get blank stares when you ask coworkers why their performance is slipping?
Are you met with only silence when discussing a mistake during a team meeting?
Getting someone to share their viewpoint in a difficult conversation is a skill that you can use in both your personal and work life.
It's important for resolving conflict and building strong relationships, and can lead to more innovative solutions.
1. Create A Safe Environment
Sharing ideas and opinions takes courage. People need to feel safe and trust those around them before they speak up.
To create a safe environment:
Establish some ground rules (e.g., all opinions are welcome, no interrupting, listen without judgment)
Tell people ahead of time that you'll be asking for their opinion
Break up into smaller groups ormeet one-on-one
Offer multiple ways of sharing (e.g., online survey, suggestion box, group session)
For individual discussions, meet in an informal and neutral setting (e.g., restaurant or coffee shop)
Quiz
Sam needs to meet with her project team to get their perspective on why the project is behind schedule. What should she do?
Meeting as a group with a set agenda allows everyone to hear each other's perspectives and lets people know ahead of time to prepare for the discussion. A team lunch is not an appropriate setting for a group discussion on a business matter. Sending out a survey isn't a practical solution for a smaller group.
2. Turn It Into A Dialogue
Instead of presenting your point of view and asking for opinions, start a conversation.
To get the conversation started:
Share stories or experiences with each other before asking for opinions.
Did you know?
Want to discuss this Byte or other content from Rumie? Join us in the Rumie community on Discord to connect directly with other learners using text and voice chat!
Make It Worthwhile
Do
Actively listen
Provide positive feedback
Thank them for sharing
Invite them to offer solutions
Discuss what you'll do with their feedback
Don't
Make them feel wrong
Negate their input (e.g., Avoid saying "Yes, but...")
Ask accusatory questions (e.g., "Why would you think that?")
Surprise them or force a response
This Byte has been authored by
Lisa Fatum
Technology Implementation Consultant