How do you start a conversation of change?

How do you start a Conversation of Change? When lunching with a colleague last week, we discussed the difficult conversations we sometimes have to have regarding performance. She was relating what she said and her approach and I was thinking about how it differed to a conversation of change. And so she asked me - well how do you start a conversation of change?I find it useful to think about what you want to use a conversation of change for...is it to:

• Test an assumption?
• Explore a possibility?
• Identify a gap?

Whether it is at a personal level, a team level or a organisational level there are a number of phrases that can start and sustain a conversation of change.

• What if?
• Why is that?
• How would things be different if...
• Tell me more...

Not all conversations are easy ones to have. If the conversation is anticipated to be a difficult one then it helps to take stock before the conversation and ensure that you:

• are coming from a position of mutual respect,
• have a positive intent behind the conversation and
• retain a spirit of inquiry.

I am  influenced by the work of David Bohm, Peter Senge and Chris Argryis in this regard. But I would love to hear from you about the phrases that you find helpful in a conversation of change? Do share...