Your team is divided on decisions. How do you navigate conflicting opinions using Motivational Interviewing?

1 Understanding MI

Motivational Interviewing is rooted in the idea that change is more likely to happen when it is self-motivated and rooted in one's own values. In a team setting, this means facilitating a conversation that helps each member articulate their own motivations for their opinions. You'll want to encourage your team to express their thoughts and feelings without judgment. This creates a safe space for everyone to share, fostering mutual respect and a better understanding of where each person is coming from. It's not about convincing others to change their opinions but about exploring the underlying motivations that drive those opinions.

2 Active Listening

Active listening is a cornerstone of MI, involving full concentration, understanding, responding, and then remembering what is being said. When team members feel heard, they're more likely to engage in constructive dialogue. You should listen for the values and beliefs that underpin their arguments, which can often reveal common ground. Reflective listening, where you mirror back what you've heard, can also help clarify and validate your team members' perspectives, making them feel respected and valued.

4 Eliciting Change Talk

Change talk is any self-expressed language that is indicative of a person's consideration of change. When navigating conflicting opinions, eliciting change talk involves guiding the conversation so that team members talk about their desire, ability, reasons, and need for making a decision. Asking open-ended questions can help uncover motivations and the willingness to shift positions. This type of dialogue can gradually shape the team's direction toward a unified decision.

5 Developing Discrepancy

Developing discrepancy is about helping team members see the gap between their current situation and where they want to be. In the context of team decisions, it means facilitating discussions that highlight how certain choices align or conflict with the team's overarching goals. By making these discrepancies clear, you can motivate the team to think critically about the best path forward and consider adjustments to their viewpoints that align with shared objectives.

6 Resolving Conflict

Finally, resolving conflict through MI involves integrating the insights gained from the previous steps to find a path forward. Summarize the key points from the discussion to ensure everyone's perspective is acknowledged. Then, collaboratively work towards building a decision that aligns with the team's values and goals. It's about finding a resolution that everyone can support, not just a compromise. This approach encourages buy-in and commitment to the final decision.