14 Module 7 – Converging on an Idea

Welcome to Module 7 where we will be covering how to come to a consensus and converge on an idea in order to move forward with your project.

When working in a team, it is important to understand that every individual comes to the team with their own lived experiences and opinions. From one perspective these differences make it challenging to come up with a census, but these differences also allow for the team to gain a much more rounded understanding of the topic. Luckily, there exist many strategies of coming to a consensus within a team and we will uncover some in this module.

 First of all, it is important to place the interests of the team and project before your own; you can’t expect others to do so without showing that you place the team first yourself. Secondly, don’t be afraid to clarify something that you do not understand as this will help keep everyone on the same page and help avoid conflicts in the future. Thirdly, be honest with your feelings and opinions, as this will not only make your own experience more enjoyable, but will also help the team be more understanding of your position. Next, be sure to not just listen, but hear what everyone has to say. Listening is a skill that requires mastery, so be mindful of what you say and how you react to others. Finally, don’t be afraid to disagree, truth is often uncovered through discussion!

Through conversation you will develop three main communication skills:

• Active Listening: When we actively listen we suspend our own thought processes and give the speaker our full attention. We make a deliberate effort to understand someone’s position and their needs, concerns and emotions.

 

• Summarizing: A succinct and accurate summary of what’s been said so far can really help a group move towards a decision. Outline the emerging common ground as well as the unresolved differences: “It seems like we’ve almost reached agreement on that bit of the proposal, but we need to explore this part further to address everyone’s concerns.” Check with everyone that you’ve got it right.

 

• Synthesis: Find the common ground and any connections between seemingly competing ideas and weave them together to form proposals. Focus on solutions that address the fundamental needs and key concerns that people within the group have.

Now its your turn! In your groups take your newfound insights and form an agreement on an idea to move forward with it. By the end of this time, you should have identified a feasible solution that you will further explore when solving your Problem Statement.