This discussion guide is a resource for you to have conversations with your colleagues and explore this topic further.
Key learnings
- Know the difference
- Intent is personal and is shaped by how we want to be seen. Impact is formed by the recipient’s experiences, beliefs, and biases.
- Lead with impact
- Be conscious of the impact your words and actions have no matter the intention.
- Listen actively
- Listen to understand the harm done, not to respond. Ask for clarification when needed.
- Acknowledge impact
- Restate the other’s perspective. Commit to changing your behavior.
Questions to spark further discussion
- Share a time when your words or actions had an unintentional, negative impact on someone.
- What are some ways we can name harm that’s been done and repair that harm?
- How do we create space to improve our empathy skills in situations where harm has been done?
If you have questions or would like additional support discussing this topic, please contact Siri Pairin, a member of the DEI team, at sirinda.pairin@wisc.edu.
Tags: