From spiral to solution
Summarize, align, and name the next step.
Test your conflict EQWhy this works
A short, neutral summary cools the thread. Proposing one next step gets the channel moving again.
Try these drills
Summarize before you argue
1 minute- State the other view in one clear line.
- Ask: 'Did I get that right?'
- Share your view and suggest the next step.
Outcome: Lowers heat and builds shared understanding.
Mechanism: When people feel understood, defensiveness drops. Then logic lands and you can reach agreement faster.
What to measure
- fewer escalations
- time to agreement
- post meeting sentiment
FAQ
Will these scripts sound robotic?▼
They are templates. Use your own words. Simple beats clever.
What if the other person gets upset?▼
Return to a short summary, name the impact, and suggest the next step.