How are your conversations? The quality of your conversation is an indicator of your workplace culture and a window into your team performance and effectiveness.
The key behaviors of a leader manifest through conversation. In fact, you could argue that leadership is a stream of conversation.
A constructive conversation is at the heart of leading well. It centers on a common purpose, makes a difference and is guided by a leader. A constructive conversation creates, refines and shares knowledge.
A constructive conversation:
| Is a Dialogue | Is not a debate |
| Is about Listening | Is not about preparing an answer |
| Is about Being Open | Is not about making judgments |
| Is about Connecting | Is not about controlling |
Constructive conversations happen when people feel safe enough to raise normally untouchable issues, challenge one another’s viewpoints and collaborate to resolve issues. As a leader, you’re the role model for the way conversations materialize. Your ability to conduct constructive conversations is an indispensable leadership tool.
