1.7 Moving to Action: How to Close Conversations Effectively

In the world of education, where decisions often have a profound impact on the lives of students, staff, and the wider community, the ability to close conversations effectively is paramount. As we've explored in previous posts in this series, inspired by the book 'Crucial Conversations', the art of conversation is multifaceted. It's not just about how we start a conversation or navigate through it, but also how we bring it to a close.

Closing a conversation effectively means moving from dialogue to action. It's about ensuring that the conversation leads to clear decisions, commitments, and follow-through. In this post, we'll explore strategies for closing conversations effectively, focusing on the essential elements of moving to action, all centred around the implementation of a new literacy strategy.

The Importance of Closing Conversations Effectively

Closing a conversation effectively is vital for several reasons:

• It ensures that the time and effort invested in the conversation lead to tangible outcomes.

• It fosters accountability by clarifying who will do what by when.

• It helps prevent misunderstandings and potential conflicts down the line.

Key Actions for Leaders

1. Determine Who Does What by When

• Clarify Responsibilities: Make sure that everyone involved knows exactly what they are responsible for.

• Set Deadlines: Assign specific deadlines for each task or action item.

• Example: In a meeting about the new literacy strategy, assign specific tasks to different team members, such as analysing the most recent reading data, implementing a new reading buddy system, and ensuring that pupils who require phonic support are identified and supported, with clear deadlines.

2. Make the Deliverables Crystal Clear

• Define Expectations: Be explicit about what needs to be delivered and how success will be measured.

• Avoid Ambiguity: Use clear and precise language to prevent misunderstandings.

• Example: In a conversation with the Senior Team about the new literacy strategy, outline specific strategies and expectations, such as the data will be presented in next Monday's SLT Meeting by the Assistant Principal for English; success will be measured by ensuring that all stakeholders understand which pupils require phonic support, which pupils require intervention (e.g. those below their CRA), and which pupils are at or above their CRA.

3. Set a Follow-up Time

• Schedule Regular Check-ins: Regular follow-ups ensure that progress is being made and provide opportunities to address any challenges or obstacles.

• Keep the Momentum Going: Consistent follow-up helps maintain focus and momentum on the agreed-upon actions.

• Example: After a discussion about the new literacy strategy, schedule bi-weekly meetings to review progress, address challenges, and celebrate successes in student reading levels.

4. Record the Commitments and Then Follow Up

• Document Agreements: Write down the commitments made, including who is responsible for what, and share them with all relevant parties.

• Hold People Accountable: Regularly review the commitments and hold individuals accountable for their progress.

• Example: After a leadership team meeting about the new literacy strategy, document the agreed-upon actions and circulate accordingly.

Conclusion

Moving to action is a critical phase in any crucial conversation. It's where words become deeds, and intentions become reality. By focusing on clarity, accountability, and follow-through, we can ensure that our conversations lead to meaningful action.