I don’t know anyone who loves engaging in disagreements. In fact, most of the women I know avoid disagreements, conflict, and confrontation at all costs. However, there are great costs to this avoidance, including missed opportunities for creativity and innovation, poor communication and growing resentment, slower or stalled decision making, a lack of trust and psychological safety, and higher potential for burnout and turnover. So, you can see the costs are high!
Researchers at Harvard surveyed 486 employees across a wide range of industries and found that only 39% of respondents reported being trained or coached in handling workplace conflict. Of those who were trained or coached in this area, a stunning 96% said training and coaching helped them deal with conflict more effectively. 73% said they felt more confident and comfortable engaging in disagreements. 62% felt they were able to turn potentially destructive conflicts into productive ones.
Clearly, this is a skill that is not only needed, but that also has so many benefits in terms of impacting team and organizational outcomes!
In this episode, we dig into the importance of disagreement in leadership and communication while debunking common myths surrounding conflict. I share how learning to navigate disagreements can lead to innovative solutions and stronger relationships. Inspired by my recent school work for my Master's in Organizational Leadership program, I introduce you to the HEAR method from Harvard, which provides a framework for effective communication during disagreements. The episode will help you begin to embrace disagreement as a powerful and necessary tool, as well as an opportunity for growth and collaboration.
Episode Highlights:
00:00 The Importance of Disagreement
02:46 Building Skills for Effective Disagreement
06:06 Myths Surrounding Disagreement
09:50 Strategies for Navigating Disagreements
16:03 The HEAR Method for Effective Communication
22:00 Transforming Disagreement into Opportunity
Links Mentioned:
Article: Managing a Polarized Workforce: How to Foster Debate and Promote Trust from the Harvard Business Review
Book: The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni
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