A recurrent theme in the past 12 months of conversations with Human Resource Directors has been the noticeable rise in the unwillingness of people at work to have ‘hard’ conversations with one another. 

In addition, political polarisation has hit the mainstream and it’s having inevitable negative consequences on teamwork.

Which is why the publication of The Next Conversation is so timely. A US litigation lawyer, Jefferson Fisher has learned a thing or two about how to have difficult conversations in heated environments.

His book offers an actionable framework that delivers transformative results. Codifying the typical architecture of an argument, Fisher first identifies the triggers that lead to a loss of self-control. Next, he advocates for mindful slowing down, using the game-changing power of a pause.  

His ‘less-is-more’ approach is certainnly compelling, focusing on reconnection and understanding as the antidote to the social dividedness of our times.

Societal cohesion depends on our ability to communicate well together. This accessible and invaluable handbook provides a much-needed manual for anyone interested in the development of high-performing teams.