"I am canceling your event"
Susan has been planning the panel discussion for weeks. She got three senior leaders to agree to be on the panel. Another senior leader jumped in at the last minute to be moderator. But Mike, Susan’s boss' boss - who is on the panel - decided to cancel the event at 4:00 the night before because Mike decided he didn't like the new moderator. Susan heard about the cancellation second-hand. She decides to speak to Mike to see if she can change his mind. (15:40)
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Lessons Learned:
- Have alternatives - Susan almost got Mike to change his mind because she had a variety of alternatives, solutions and possible outcomes.
- Have an intention to dialogue - Not just to "make the case," but to hear how the other person sees it as well.
- Be a peer - Both did a great job of being respectful and listening to each other. Even though ultimately it was Mike's decision to make.
- Willing to have multiple conversations - There wasn't enough time to discuss Susan being the moderator. But both were willing to revisit the issue.
- Avoid "to be on the record" - Susan's closing statement was just a bit too strong. She had made her case and it was clear where she stood.
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