If you would like to learn more about open conversations and how all conversations can be approached in an open inclusive manner, then this session is for you.   

Join the Organisational Development team for an interactive workshop on how leaders and managers can approach conversations using the principles of an open conversation.   

Open Conversations are at the heart of our university values and the culture we want to see thrive. This workshop is to support those in leadership positions as part of a programme of activity to support the growth and development of open conversations across the university.    

What is an open conversation?

An open conversation is a spoken interaction between two or more people, where those engaged in the conversation feel safe and able to contribute or raise relevant ideas, questions or concerns.  An Open Conversation includes any or all of the following behaviours and actions:    

• based on empathetic listening.    
• where questions are used to explore and build understanding.    
• non-judgemental.    
• where not having an answer provides for the foundations of exploring and developing solutions.    
• being comfortable and open with not knowing.    
• empowering others to learn and develop and make decisions.     
• believing in the ability of the individual to solve problems and find solutions for themselves.    

Session dates, times and location   

The sessions will be available both face to face and online via Teams on the following dates and times: 

• Tuesday 7 May 2024, from 1.30pm – 3.30pm (University Park) 
• Wednesday 5 June 2024, from 1.30pm – 3.30pm (Jubilee Campus) 
• Wednesday 3 July 2024, from 1.30pm – 3.30pm (Via Ms Teams) 

Book your place on an upcoming session here.   

Session outcomes

• To understand what an open conversation is and share our experiences.  
• To explore the barriers to having an open conversation.   
• To develop understanding in the importance of creating a culture of trust and psychological safety. ​ 
• To explore the importance of effective listening and questioning in how we approach an open conversation. 
• To practise the skills needed to have an open conversation​. 

Who is the session for?

This workshop is to support those in leadership positions as part of a programme of activity to support the growth and development of open conversations across the university.    

This is part of a programme of activity for open conversations. There is also an introductory session exploring what an open conversation is and a session designed to support all staff members to explore how to initiate, prepare for and have an open conversation.