How should we communicate in a world where differences in perspective, experience, job function, culture, gender, age, and a myriad of other factors often lead to distrust, misunderstanding and reduced productivity? We can all benefit from learning the tools of dialogue - how to communicate across differences in a way that is both respectful and effective. Dialogue is how you communicate when you're having trouble communicating.

Program 1: Communicating in a Diverse World. Overview. What is dialogue - contrasting discussion, negotiation, debate and dialogue.  Examples will focus on how Dialogue helps us communicate across job functions, helping improve relations between people at different levels within the organization as well as between different departments or areas of expertise.

Program 2: Dialogue for Cultural Understanding. We apply the skills of dialogue outlined in program 1 to challenges faced in culturally diverse work environments. We would look at race, ethnicity, language and religion workplace issues and how dialogue can be used to open communication, break down stereotypes and facilitate more productive relationships. Dramatizations are used that demonstrate each of the 3 key skills - suspension, listening and discovery.

Program 3: Dialogue Between Genders. We apply the skills of dialogue outlined in program 1 to improve gender relations at work. We explore how dialogue can be used to overcome misunderstandings, break down stereotypes and avoid harassment and other unproductive workplace behavior. Dramatizations are used that demonstrate each of the 3 key skills - suspension, listening and discovery as they apply to gender relations at work.

Program 4: Dialogue Among Generations. We apply the skills of dialogue outlined in program 1 to bridge the personal and professional style differences that exist between employees of different ages. We uncover how divergent personal and world views common to people of different generations can lead to misunderstandings and distrust and how dialogue can help overcome age barriers and build more productive workplace relationships. Dramatizations are used that demonstrate each of the 3 key skills - suspension, listening and discovery as they apply to inter-generational collaboration at work.

The entire series is designed for a 2-hour training workshop. Additional activities are included in the facilitation guide for more comprehensive sessions and seminars.

Alternate Versions: available on video, DVD or streamed media. Call for alternative versions 1-800-774-4870.