Tools For Fruitful Dialogue

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“Definition – Crucial Conversations: A discussion between two or more people where (1) stakes are high, (2) opinions vary, and (3) emotions run strong. . . . Countless generations of genetic shaping drive humans to handle crucial conversations with flying fists and fleet feet, not intelligent persuasion and gentle attentiveness. . . . Twenty Five years of research in seventeen different organizations has taught us that individuals who are the most influential – who can get things done and at the same time build relationships – are those who master their crucial conversations . . . and create an environment when people openly and honestly express their opinions, share their feelings and articulate their theories. They willingly and capably share their views even when their ideas are controversial or unpopular. . .This spectacular talent is called dialogue” (Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, Al Switzler. Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When the Stakes Are High. McGraw-Hill Education, 2011, pp. 3, 5, 10, 23).