How to Lead in Product Management: Practices to Align Stakeholders, Guide Development Teams, and Create Value Together

by Roman Pichler

Communication Guidelines for Collaborative Decision-Making63 Always speak from a place of respect for others and assume good intentions on the part of the group members. Respect differences of opinion and value the diversity of the group members. Listen with an open mind; be receptive and refrain from making premature judgements. Speak honestly and openly. Always stick to observable facts. Refrain from judging and labelling people; separate individual and opinion. Ask questions when you sense misunderstanding or disagreement. Speak up if you have not been participating. Make room for others if you have spoken often. Do not interrupt others, but allow a brief moment of silence to let the previous speaker’s words sink in before the next person speaks. Stay present; do not engage in side conversations or answer messages on your electronic devices.