In contrast, assuming someone is deliberately obstructive can quickly derail a conversation. Imagine a designer whose manager interrupts their process with critical feedback. Instead of assuming the manager doesn’t value their work, the designer could ask, “What concerns do you have about this approach?” This transforms a potentially tense exchange into an opportunity to gain insights and improve the project. ✅ Leaders, in particular, can benefit from approaching conflicts with the assumption that there’s always more to learn. In the world of design, where depth and creativity need to be nurtured, assuming that each team member brings valuable insights fosters collaboration and innovation. ✅ Instead of pushing to be “right,” leaders can ask, “What factors influenced your thinking?” to open up a more constructive discussion. ✅ By using assumptions to explore rather than judge, you not only defuse tension but also encourage trust and problem-solving, making difficult conversations far more effective. We're now going to assume that...you've got this. 😉 Love,
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Enabling senior design professionals to be more influential within their organisations. ✨ Author of this human and design character, published by BIS Publishers.📚
Curiosity killed the cat. Did it though? When we work with people within our organisations, sometimes we forget they are also humans, with squishy insides and their own insecurities, fears and concerns. We see their role, not the person. It's easy to get defensive if you feel their point of view is questioning your own... but we have an antidote for you... STAY CURIOUS! This is the third principle of how to have better difficult conversations—Exploration over Defensiveness. Every conversation...
The Police said it best... Sending out an S.O.SSending out an S.O.SSending out an S.O.S Obviously they were talking about; SolidarityOverSelf-righteousness This is the second principle of how to have better difficult conversations. In difficult conversations, what would it mean to focus on solidarity rather than proving you’re right? Co-operation comes from recognising what unites you, not what divides you. Before the conversation, reflect on shared goals to ensure you approach it from a...
Can't live with them, can't live without them. Difficult conversations are those things we know we need to have from time to time and yet, most of us are experts at avoiding them. Until now... Let's look at the anatomy of a difficult conversation so we can better address them when they arise. According to author Fred Kofman, from his book 'How to Build Value through Values', a difficult conversation can be broken down into the following three elements: A bit more detail: 1. The It: When...