Faculty and staff invited to participate in ‘Having Hard Conversations: A Community of Practice’
A message from University Ombuds Jill Crainshaw and Erica Still, associate dean for Faculty Recruitment, Diversity, and Inclusion in the College
Ready for some hands-on learning when it comes to having hard conversations? These days, hard conversations seem to be waiting around every corner. The question isn’t if they will occur, but how well these conversations will go when they happen.
Fortunately, navigating challenging interactions is a skill that can be developed and can lead to greater understanding and better relationships. Successful conversations don’t just happen. They take practice. By having uncomfortable conversations on purpose, this program will prepare participants for hard conversations later by practicing now.
Focusing on the theme of kindness, participants will practice key conversation skills: asking questions, expressing opinions, disagreeing respectfully, finding common ground, setting boundaries, managing frustration, learning from each other, apologizing, reaching consensus, and even remaining unpersuaded. Just as important, we will take time to reflect on these interactions to deepen learning and growth.
Sessions will meet in person from noon to 1 p.m. on five Wednesdays this semester: Feb. 26, March 5, March 19, March 26, and April 2.
This program is sponsored by the Office of the Provost. For additional information email Jill Crainshaw or Erica Still.
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