Summary

In one of Dominic’s favourite episodes, Karin Hurt and David Dye explore workplace conflict and how productive conversations drive growth and innovation. They discuss overcoming fear, using key phrases like “tell me more” to de-escalate tensions, and fostering connection, clarity, and curiosity.

The conversation highlights the benefits of teams that handle conflict well, from stronger collaboration to increased innovation. David and Karin share personal insights, practical strategies, and book recommendations, including Tribes by Seth Godin and 4000 Weeks by Oliver Burkeman.

On today’s podcast: 

  • Conflict is not inherently negative; it is a difference of perspective that can lead to innovation and problem-solving.
  • Having productive conversations about conflicts requires connection, clarity, curiosity, and commitment.
  • Initiating conversations about conflicts can be uncomfortable, but it is necessary for growth and improvement.
  • Using powerful phrases, such as ‘Tell me more’ and ‘What would a successful outcome do for you?’, can facilitate productive conversations about conflicts.
  • Conflict resolution requires understanding and addressing all parties’ underlying needs and motivations. Use phrases like ‘tell me more’ and ‘I’m curious’ to deescalate conflicts and create a safe space for dialogue.
  • Acknowledge emotions and use check-ins for understanding to ensure that everyone feels heard.
  • Teams that handle conflict well foster innovation and have a united front.
  • Effective communication and collaboration are essential for successful conflict resolution.
  • Recommended books: ‘Tribes’ by Seth Godin and ‘4000 Weeks’ by Oliver Burkeman.

Follow Karin Hurt and David Dye:

Who are Karin Hurt and David Dye

Karin Hurt and David Dye help human-centered leaders find clarity in uncertainty, drive innovation, and achieve breakthrough results. As CEO and President of Let’s Grow Leaders, they are known for practical tools and leadership development programs that stick. Karin and David are the award-winning authors of six books including, Courageous Cultures: How to Build Teams of Micro-Innovators, Problem Solvers, and Customer Advocates and Powerful Phrases for Dealing With Workplace Conflict A former Verizon Wireless executive, Karin was named to Inc. Magazine’s list of great leadership speakers. David Dye is a former executive and elected official. Karin and David are committed to their philanthropic initiative, Winning Wells – building clean water wells for the people of Cambodia.

What you’ll learn from Karin Hurt and David Dye

02:59 The Need for Productive Conflict Conversations

09:04 Connection and Clarity in Conflict Resolution

13:38 Curiosity and Commitment in Addressing Conflict

16:24 Using Powerful Phrases to Navigate Conflict Conversations

24:04 Deescalating Conflicts: The Power of Effective Communication

27:27 Creating a Safe Space for Dialogue: Strategies for Conflict Resolution

29:29 The Benefits of Teams that Handle Conflict Well

31:47 Innovation and Collaboration: The Role of Conflict in Driving Change

36:37 War Stories: Examples of Conflict Resolution

42:18 The Importance of Psychological Safety and Challenging the Status Quo

46:38 Unpopular Opinions and Worst Business Advice


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