Consensus Through Conversations

Table Of Contents

Foreword by Pierre Gagnon
Preface
INTRODUCTION: THE NEW RULES OF DECISION-MAKING
CHAPTER 1: WHAT IS CONSENSUS?
Consensus Defined
Beliefs That Guide Consensus
Choosing the Right Decision-Making Approach
Alternatives to Consensus
Common Misconceptions
Consensus in Action
CHAPTER 2: HOW DO I PREPARE?
Determine Whether Consensus Is a Good Fit
Decide Who to Involve in the Decision
Enlist a Skilled Facilitator
Clarify the Group’s Scope and Authority
Educate Group Members
Develop an Agenda
Gather the Relevant Information
Start the Meeting Off Right
CHAPTER 3: WHAT ARE THE BASIC STEPS?
Step One: Define the Issue
Step Two: Establish Decision Criteria
Step Three: Craft the Proposal
Step Four: Test for Consensus
Step Five: Reach Agreement
CHAPTER 4: HOW DO I WORK WITH DISAGREEMENT?
Using Consensus Cards
Expressing and Resolving Legitimate Concerns
Dealing with Opposition or “Blocks”
CHAPTER 5: SIX TRAPS THAT UNDERMINE CONSENSUS
Member Absence from Critical Meetings
Grandstanding Members
Obstructive Blocking
Pressuring Members to Conform (Coercive Tactics)
Group Fatigue and/or Frustration
Silent Members
CHAPTER 6: TEN TIPS FOR BETTER CONSENSUS MEETINGS
Set Clear Ground Rules
Use a “Group Memory”
Distinguish “Must” from “Want” Criteria
Use Silence and Pauses
Assign Questions and Tasks to Breakout Groups
Put Discussion in a Fishbowl
Stack Participants
Take a Break
Use Technology Wisely
Evaluate the Meeting
CHAPTER 7: TOWARD HIGH-COMMITMENT DECISIONS
Return to the Roots of Consensus
Remember the Words of My Teachers
Reconnect with My Purpose and Values
Resource Guide
Index
About the Author