How can you encourage proactive team solutions during difficult conversations?

When people say "listen actively," I still don't think they do it. What I like to say is to "demonstrate listening." That is, reflect back the content (and emotion - the WHY it's important to the speaker) to see if you got it right. It's ok if you don't get it right because then the speaker can clarify. They can see that you're paying attention. It's incredibly powerful

Understand the facts and put facts first before going by the flow of stories. Difficult or crucial conversation are build among high stakes, disagreements / arguments and emotions and therefore it is paramount important to understand the facts / objects

One thing I have found helpful is to always prioritise understanding other perspectives - curiousity is key. Adopting a mindset of always learning means that you avoid becoming defensive or dismissive of differing opinions. Instead, if you maintain an open mind and be willing to explore alternative solutions with sincerity - this demonstrates both respect and a genuine interest in finding a resolution that benefits everyone involved. Conflicts can arise due to different perspectives, and conflicting opinions can actually be an opportunity for growth and closer relationships with your team members. By remaining open to various perspectives and ideas, you do create collaboration and a feeling of respect and you strengthen relationships.

Setting an intention from the beginning is a good way to make sure you are starting off on the right foot. Relationships need human to human connection and when doing conflict resolution it is important to focus on repairing. It's never easy to have a hard conversation, but if you set an intention from the beginning that the goal is "us vs. the problem" and not "me vs. you", you are already entering the conversation with a more compassionate mind-frame ??

In navigating tough conversations, a key strategy is fostering a culture of psychological safety. This goes beyond setting a respectful tone; it's about creating an environment where team members feel secure to voice their opinions, even if they differ from the majority. To do this, actively encourage diverse viewpoints and recognise the value they bring. Encourage also ways to colelct views/feedback that are not only collected as part of a forum - ensure the quiet voices have an appropriate way to provide feedback too! Demonstrating vulnerability as a leader, by sharing your own uncertainties or mistakes, can also empower others to speak up. It's about shifting the focus to understand ALL perspectives.

Equally essential to let everyone involved feel safe and heard during difficult conversations. Create an environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their thoughts without judgment

Good listening is not passive but active. It's actually a collaborative back and forth characterized by the creation of a safe environment where issues and differences could be discussed openly. Where both parties can feel seen and heard. Active listening is an essential part to building Psychological safety and trust within teams. If we fail to create a safe environment then we will fail to weather the difficult conversations.

Encourage team members to practice active listening. When people focus on what the other person is saying, and not just waiting for their turn to speak, it shows that they care about finding proactive solutions

Foster a collaborative environment by encouraging team members to work together. Emphasize that everyone deserves a seat at the table and that everyone's input is valuable.

Ensure that everyone on the team is respectful to each other. Encourage team members to avoid blaming and attacking each other. Foster a collaborative environment by encouraging team members to work together. Emphasize that everyone deserves a seat at the table and that everyone's input is valuable

Often, difficult conversations are dominated by consensus-seeking behavior. Personally, I'd encourage team members to voice contrary opinions and challenge the status quo. This can be achieved by appointing a 'devil's advocate' in meetings, ensuring that alternative viewpoints are always considered. Teach and model empathy and active listening. During difficult conversations, it’s crucial that team members feel heard and understood. This requires leaders to not only listen but also to validate the emotions and perspectives of their team members. Lastly, proactively develop a culture where constructive feedback is regularly exchanged. Feedback should be specific, task-focused, and delivered in a manner that promotes learning and growth.

Creativity: Encourage team members to brainstorm creative solutions by keeping an open mind and never shutting down any ideas. Even if the idea seems far-fetched, listen carefully, so that you don't miss a valuable solution

While the urge to push for immediate solutions during difficult conversations is understandable, a momentary pause can be a strategic choice. This pause allows your team to go deeper into the complexities of the challenge thereby finding ways of ensuring follow-on actions align with immediate needs and overall goals. Hence, promoting genuine and lasting solutions.