Summary: Free speech has taken on new dimensions in the past decade. While the freedom to express oneself is a cornerstone of democratic societies, it’s crucial to understand the distinction between “free speech” and “responsible free speech.” Let’s explore the nuances of terms for individuals and organizations aiming to strike a balance.
Dear Dr. Sylvia,
Last week, I was in a meeting that had me shaking my head about proper decorum in team meetings.
For example, one man, let’s call him Jed, stormed out of the meeting after another colleague said, with a tone of anger, “I think your idea is not only uninformed but also irrelevant.”
And with that, Jed stood up and said, “I’m out of here,” and slammed the door like a loud exclamation point.
The room was silent momentarily, and then the “for/against” started kind of like an internal civil war.
We wasted time, and the SVP in charge was smart enough to call for a “bio break.”
The problem was, when we returned, minus Jed, not much of value happened.
To clarify, it wasn’t always like this.
Telling the truth is NOT spilling your guts.
I have heard you encourage truth telling as the action component to developing trust in an organization.
There used to be respect and honesty. Yes, we had differences of opinion.
However, in the last few years respecting each other when there is tension has disappeared.
I would appreciate your thoughts on how to reestablish a healthy and positive meeting setting, even when there are conflicts and disagreements
Signed,
Open for Discussion
Communicating to captivate takes work and intention.
Dear Open for Discussion,
I and so many others have been shaking my head at the poor level of communication in our present society.
The pattern of disrespect has hit an all-time high.
The leaders in the workplace can help create, as Amy Edmundson suggests, an environment of psychological safety where discussions do not end with anger and discontent.
Let’s dive deep into what can be done for better communication.
Understanding Free Speech
The notion of free speech is ingrained in democratic values, promoting the idea that individuals have the right to express their thoughts and opinions without censorship.
However, it seems that “hate speech.” is more the norm rather than the
exception.
Debate now means talking over each other (note the recent debate between governors Ron DeSantis and Gavin Newsom). There is no point counterpoint. There is just shouting without listening.
I know there is a better way. It is called The Dialogue Method. More on this later.
The Challenge of Responsible Free Speech
While free speech is a fundamental right, the advent of the internet has brought forth challenges in maintaining responsible communication.
The line between expressing one’s opinions and disseminating harmful content can be thin, prompting the need for responsible free speech.
I wonder where the role models of responsible free speech can be found.
Recently, I have heard that so many team meetings, regardless of the industry, end up in angry chaos.
No one is willing to risk talking the truth either to colleagues or truth to power with the boss.
Mindful Content Creation
When developing the content outline for a meeting, be conscious of the potential impact on your staff.
Craft your messages thoughtfully, avoiding language that may incite harm, hatred, or misinformation.
As a leader, it behooves you to add value and foster positive engagement.
Instead of using aggressive language, present your opinions in a constructive manner to encourage healthy discussions.
Here is one way to discuss what is contentious:
- “When you…
- I feel…
- And then I…
- What I am willing to do is…
- What I am not willing to do is…”
Let me give you an example:
“When you make derogatory comments to my suggestions I feel discounted.
And then I shut down to hearing anything else you say
What I am willing to do is discuss what you can say so I feel heard and do the same for you.
What I am not willing to do is ignore the upset and
Pretend everything is fine when it isn’t.
The next sentence is also the key to improving the communication during conflict:
AND NOW I’D LIKE TO HEAR FROM YOU.
Engage in Constructive Dialogues
Foster an environment that encourages constructive conversations. Engage with your staff respectfully, even when opinions differ.
The dialogue method requires more questions and less positionality. You may have come into the meeting with your mind made up.
Pause and ask for other points of view.
Be open to the outcome not attached to it.
Yes, you may still end up where you began. However, it is with more information to back up your thoughts.
In other words, fostering positive engagement and content that sparks meaningful discussions leads to better outcomes.
Respond to comments and feedback with an open mind. Promote healthy exchange of ideas.
Strike the Right Balance
Finding the balance between free speech and responsible expression is essential. By embracing responsible free speech, individuals and organizations can contribute to a positive culture while maintaining their right to voice opinions freely.
Encourage your staff to share their thoughts responsibly, fostering a community built on respect and open-mindedness.
In conclusion, the power of free speech comes with the responsibility to use it wisely. By promoting responsible free speech, individuals and organizations can contribute to a healthier discourse while maintaining their right to express themselves.
