Chapter 32: constructive dialogue and erm: lessons from the financial
There are several preconditions that should be met for conducting constructive dialogue in an organization:
- Trust: There should be a high level of trust among the participants in the dialogue. This includes trust in the process, the facilitator, and the other participants.
- Openness: Participants must be open to new ideas and willing to consider different perspectives. They should be willing to listen to others and share their own thoughts and ideas without fear of criticism or judgment.
- Respect: Participants must show respect for each other and their opinions. They should be able to disagree without being disagreeable and avoid personal attacks or insults.
- Active listening: Participants should actively listen to what others are saying and seek to understand their perspectives. This means avoiding interrupting or talking over others and asking clarifying questions to ensure understanding.
- Constructive feedback: Participants should provide constructive feedback that is specific, timely, and focused on improving the dialogue and outcomes. Feedback should be given in a respectful and non-threatening manner.
- Shared purpose: Participants should have a shared purpose or goal for the dialogue. This helps to keep the conversation focused and ensures that everyone is working towards the same objective.
By meeting these preconditions, an organization can create an environment where constructive dialogue can take place, allowing for the exchange of ideas, the identification of common ground, and the development of effective solutions to complex problems.