Have you ever been in a meeting where you made a comment or suggested an idea that someone else disagreed with? The way they responded probably impacted how you felt. Disagreements can be health, but they also can be destructive or detrimental.
There are a few ways to ensure that when the heat rises in a meeting, it simmers productive tension and doesn’t burn the team:
- Be grounded in purpose. If you disagree with someone, be clear about what the group is trying to achieve and how you are working toward this goal.
- Be respectful. Avoid raising your voice, laughing at others, or making rude facial expressions (e.g., smirking or rolling your eyes). Don’t interrupt others or speak out of turn.
- Be observant. Are some people dominating the conversation? Who hasn’t spoken? Who is listening and taking notes? Who seems distracted and disinterested? These observations can help you avoid conflicts or problems before they start.
- Invite multiple interpretations or views on an issue. Without encouraging arguments or disagreements, seek input from various members of the group.
- Understand and disrupt negative or unhealthy group dynamics. For instance, if someone is always the first to speak and seems to intimidate others, have them talk after others share their thoughts.
