Building Positive Interaction Through Workplace Dialogue
摘要
This chapter discusses the ways in which dialogue can promote positive interaction in the workplace. It is based on two years of collaborative action research during which dialogue was introduced into a public social and healthcare organization in Finland. In dialogue people’s different experiences intertwine to create a new understanding of the world, of work and the organization, and of oneself and others. Genuine workplace dialogue allows sharing of holistic experiences in a safe and accepting atmosphere, which enables integration of the mind and strengthens the connections between people. Ongoing dialogue integrates the continuum of experience and maintains an authentic emotional climate in which individuals, the group and the organization can flourish. The critical role of a leader is to create and maintain opportunities for dialogue, and to facilitate and participate in workplace dialogue. This study contributes to the understanding of dialogue as a positive practice and leadership strategy.