Before the meeting: designing a useful dialogue

Start with the purpose

Agree what the conversation can realistically achieve. Exploring differences, improving mutual understanding and discussing possible next steps require different agendas. A clear purpose also helps participants judge whether the process is useful.

Think carefully about participation

Consider whose experience is relevant and whose perspective may be missing. Preparation can include separate consultations so that participants understand the process and can raise concerns before meeting together.

Agree how the conversation will work

Discuss facilitation, language needs, recording and the use of any summary. Leave enough time for questions and reflection. At the close, distinguish areas of agreement from unresolved issues and identify any next step participants wish to take.