Don: You might start by getting together a small group of people who have
some receptivity to the idea of something new because they see a need to
move "beyond vocal combat". I'll bet you could name a few (6-10) people
in your organization. If you convened that group and had them read some
article on dialog, or the distinction between dialogue and skillful
discussion in _Learning Organization: Fieldbook_, the "purpose" of the
session could be to consider whether there is any perceived value in
experimenting.
By doing so, you are creating a "playing field" where you and your kindrid
spirits can practice and gain some confort with the new
capabilities/skills before trying it our with others who might be more
suspicious or threatened.
I've noticed that when I am genuinely comfortable with something, that I
have an easier time proposing it, and trying it out, with someone
else...but
If I am hesitant or insecure, I will bring out that response in the other
person.
Good luck. If you try anything of this sort...let me know how it goes.
Margie Mulligan
Manager, Continuous Improvement
<margie.mullligan@OS.varian.com>
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Responding to Don Christensen's question
Subject: Re: Dialogue processes LO1776
"Friends:
I live in an organization which has yet to accept -- much less understand
-- dialogue as distinct from discussin or any form of collective vocal
combat. Any suggestions beyond Senge's material and the materials from
IA? "