Guidelines for Communication Use “I” statements Listen and inquire for understanding Share your thinking and be responsible for your own participation Suspend past, present, personal and emotional preconceptions and prejudgments. Allow self and others to be inarticulate Express and welcome divergent viewpoints (agree to disagree) Stick with difficult and important issues Respect silence Respect confidentiality of personal and emotional revelations while keeping transparency; state items that need to remain confidential and abide by the “Guidelines for Communication” when referring to meetings. Be as succinct as possible One conversation at a time Keep discussion oriented towards solutions and highest good rather than blame, refraining from attacks or criticism Refrain from “Triangulation” talking about individuals who are not present