People/Process
360˚
One Must…
Be Honest
How honest are you? It is difficult to communicate with and to trust someone with whom you do not naturally connect. Be clear about what you mean, sincere about what you say and reflective about your timing so that you avoid misunderstanding and develop trusting relationships.
Seek Understanding
Ask questions before reacting and don’t jump to conclusions if you think that you are hearing something that does not sit right with you. Give the person the benefit of the doubt.
Challenge with Passion
Don’t let your passion become over powering and poison the opportunity. Share your perspective, work toward the development of a common vocabulary and a shared mission of serving the reader/viewer/listener.
Be Willing to Change
“In times of change, learners inherit the earth.” Practice the skill of genuinely considering other ways of seeing and doing things. Be open to resolving conflicts and improving craft.
Stay in the Conversation
Keep the dialogue going and resist the temptation to flee. It may be the toughest thing to do when things are uncomfortable or new. Remember that, “there is no progress without struggle.”
Download a PDF worksheet: Conditions of Difference Wheel (an exercise in diversity awareness)
View the interactive Conditions of Difference Wheel exercise
Developed in conjunction with Keith Woods who is the former Dean of the Poynter Institute Faculty
