Communication Cures for People Who Avoid Conflict at All Costs

––“Are you okay with this?”

––“Anybody have a problem with that?”

––“Somebody has probably already said this, but …”

––“Somebody tell me if I’m off-base here, but …”

––Silence.

If you’re a leader asking such questions or making such comments, others often translate them to mean: “You’re concerned with your ability to facilitate a discussion when everyone is not in full agreement and where the culture values harmony above clear communication. People do not feel free to speak their mind, so...