A Solution Seeking Session is formal, collaborative problem-solving. It’s almost identical to a Targeted Conversation, but more formal and documented — meant to signal a more serious problem and produce a solution that can be implemented. The added emphasis is greater preparedness and documentation, which is what lets us handle bad actors who may not be ready to work toward a solution.
Best practices
The same as a Targeted Conversation — pull the person aside, set the table, be clear, be kind (use Introspection), and be a good host — with added formality and record-keeping throughout.
How to give a Solution Seeking Session
- Prepare yourself first. Use Introspection. Identify your real concerns and enter with compassion and good faith. Create and store a document recording your preparation and plan for the conversation.
- Create privacy and safety. Pull the person aside; ensure no outside pressures, distractions, or onlookers.
- Set the table. Clarify terms, context, and intentions. Explain why you’re meeting and what you hope to accomplish.
- Clearly describe the problem. State the specific behavior, pattern, or incident. Clarity is kindness. Frame it in terms of impact on both them and the larger system.
- Invite their perspective. Ask them to share; listen without interruption and summarize to check understanding. Show empathy and patience.
- Work toward mutual understanding. Use clarifying questions to uncover root causes. Recognize emotions without judgment. Ensure both parties feel understood.
- Shift to solution seeking. Explore options collaboratively; make solutions specific, actionable, and tied to the health of the system. Confirm agreement and record the plan.
- Follow up. Document the session and its results. Send an email to the other party recounting how it went and the agreed-upon solution — a receipt that allows for further discussion.
- Check progress. Revisit after an agreed period to see whether the solution is working and whether further adjustment is needed.