The Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue Approach to Consensus Building
© 1996 by Corinne McLaughlin

GOALS:

	Create mutual benefits (win/win, rather than win/lose)
	Discover common ground and build consensus among diverse views
	Develop shared power with a partnership approach
	Create commitment -- identification with the outcome
	Honor each participant as having a piece of the bigger picture
	Create wiser decisions through wider input

TECHNIQUES:

	Build trust by creating a positive and open atmosphere
	Clarify what constitutes consensus -- unanimity (total agreement) or "willingness to step aside" and not block a decision if one disagrees
	Surface what is hidden --allow time for each to share feelings and concerns
	Focus on individual and shared needs and interests --not on entrenched positions and past history
	Build on previous ideas -- discourage tangents
	State and restate agreements along the way to build confidence and momentum
	State differences clearly -- avoid pressure to conform
	Ask problem solving questions, not judgmental ones
	Clarify perceptions --repeat statements back to the speaker
	Don't presume motives --ask direct questions
	Avoid placating, blaming, preaching, dominating or passively resisting -- be direct
	Draw out quieter participants
	Brainstorm mutually beneficial options before final decisions are made
	Acknowledge true human needs -- economic security, recognition, belonging

DEALING WITH CONFLICTS

	Focus on the "positive intent" or grain of truth in opponent's position
	Restate opposing view in one's own words ("active listening" or "mirroring")
	When decision is stalled, state points of agreement to build on
	Ask participant(s) with dissenting view to suggest an alternative
	When no agreement on an issue, agree to revisit it at next meeting