Getting Unstuck - communicating

We've all been there - we're stuck. The conversation is simply not progressing, there is no traction. You find yourself repeating yourself and you're perplexed and frustrated.

You just want to walk away, you regret even initiating the conversation.  Frustration is starting to build. Your communication skills are failing you.

To get unstuck, and to move the conversation forward, here are a few statements that might allow you to have a constructive conversation:

• What is it about my suggestion that seems unreasonable to you? How can we modify it to make it more palatable?

• What has to happen in order for you to feel comfortable considering what I'm asking for?

• What is your main concern about [the topic being discussed]?  If we could successfully address that concern, how likely would you be to move forward with this?

• In what areas do we agree?

• Here is where I see us sharing common positions / we are in agreement [list].
• Here is where I see our differences [list]
• What can we do to bridge the difference?

• I'm not sure I understand what you mean.  Would you please say that in a different way?

• Let's list the pros and cons of our respective viewpoints. What do we share in common?

These strategies are completely transferable, as well. What works at work can be applied at home. Try it a child, a teenager or dare I say it, your spouse.  Good luck!