According to the ‘5 Dysfunctions of a Team’ book by P. Lencioni, Fear of Conflict, or healthy disagreements, is a dysfunction that can cripple a team. So how can you have productive disagreement, or those “hard conversations” as I call them? Here are several tips: Remember that you’re not on opposing teams, you’re trying to work together. Second, stay far away from emotional statements or assumptions. Third, believe everyone has good intentions so avoid personal attacks. Finally, be aware that you need to listen first, and learn, before presenting your ideas or thoughts.
