Preview the Video Clips

As you view these vignettes, think about a context you could use to weave them into your programs. The sample introductions used in the examples below offer two possible approaches, but these can be widely adapted.

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Video Clip #1 Ann and Pat

55 seconds

Summary: Two people are in conflict over how to approach a task (writing a report). They do almost everything wrong. This is a demonstration of how not to lead, collaborate, communicate or resolve conflicts.

Sample introduction to participants: “As you watch the video, look for:

  • what each person does that makes the conflict worse; and/or
  • each person’s communication style and note how the difference in styles contributes to the conflict

Video Clip #2 Joe and Pat

1.5 minutes

Summary: Two colleagues debrief a prior conflict with one coaching the other to find a possible resolution. This clip shows how to do it right: demonstration of skilled communication, coaching and conflict resolution skills. It is often used as a follow up to clip #1.

Sample introduction to participants: “As you watch the video, look for:

  • what Joe does to facilitate problem solving and help Pat deal more effectively with his difficult person (Ann), and/or
  • the effective listening and coaching techniques Joe uses

Video Clip #3 Ann and Pete (wrong way)

2.5 minutes

Summary: A supervisor and employee have a conversation about the need for more staff training. Their communication styles conflict and while the conversation remains civil, both parties are clearly frustrated. The outcome of the conversation is not clear to either party. Demonstration of ineffective leadership, poor communication and communication style conflict.

Sample introduction to participants: “As you watch the video, look for:

  • what factors get in the way of their reaching a successful resolution, and/or
  • how differences in communication styles could negatively or positively impact on a team’s development

Video Clip #4 Ann and Pete (right way)

51 seconds
Summary: This picks up near the end of the other Ann/Pete clip (above) and shows the supervisor adapting his style and approach to better respond to his employee’s concerns. Demonstration of active listening, problem solving, and coaching. This clip can be used as a follow up to clip #3.

Sample introduction to participants: “As you watch the video, look for:

  • how Pete shifts his approach with Ann and discuss how this leads to an improved outcome, and/or
  • how Pete uses positive communication and supervisory skills and strategies

Video Clip #5 Josh and Alice

1.5 minutes
Summary: Two people clash over a project that has been delayed. A constructive conversation leads to a successful resolution of the conflict.

Sample introduction to participants: “As you watch the video, look for:

  • what communication techniques Josh uses to facilitate problem solving and reduce conflict, and/or
  • how Josh successfully negotiates with Alice to reach a mutually agreeable outcome.

Video Clip #6 Bill and Joe (wrong)

40 seconds

Summary: Two people clash over a report that is late. Anger leads to an unpleasant confrontation.

Sample introduction to participants: “As you watch the video, look for:

  • what each person could have done to successfully intervene, and/or
  • the triggers that get Bill angrier and angrier

Video Clip #7 Bill and Joe (right)

2.5 minutes

Summary: A team leader coaches a colleague in improving his organizational skills to be sure a critical report gets done on time.

Sample introduction to participants: “As you watch the video, look for:

  • positive communication and problem solving tools Bill uses to keep things calm and constructive, and/or
  • how Bill uses the coaching process to help solve this problem, and/or
  • how Bill and Joe use time management techniques to help resolve the problem