From Katherine Harrington, President & CEO | West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce
Last week, the West Des Moines Leadership Academy (WDMLA) hosted a transformative session on “Crucial Conversations” led by the dynamic Erik Dominguez. Based on the widely acclaimed book Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High, this session delved into the art of navigating high-stakes, emotionally charged dialogues with confidence and clarity. As leaders, mastering these conversations is not just a skill—it’s a necessity.
Erik Dominguez, a seasoned speaker and expert in communication, brought a wealth of knowledge, practical insights, and engaging energy to the room. His approach not only highlighted the theoretical aspects of crucial conversations but also provided actionable strategies for implementation in both personal and professional contexts. Participants were left with tools to foster understanding, build trust, and achieve desired outcomes even in the most challenging discussions.
The session began with an exploration of why crucial conversations matter. Erik underscored that these moments often define relationships, shape organizational culture, and determine the success of key initiatives. Yet, many avoid such conversations due to fear of conflict or uncertainty about how to approach them effectively.
Using interactive exercises, Erik guided the group through core principles, such as:
- Start with Heart: Recognize your own motives and ensure they align with your values and the goals of the conversation.
- Learn to Look: Be aware of signs that a conversation is turning crucial—emotions running high, opposing opinions, or stakes escalating.
- Make It Safe: Create an environment where all parties feel respected and valued, setting the stage for open dialogue.
- Master Your Stories: Understand and manage the narratives you tell yourself about others’ actions or intentions.
- State Your Path: Communicate your perspective clearly and persuasively while inviting others to share theirs.
Participants engaged in role-playing scenarios to practice these principles, receiving real-time feedback and insights from Erik and their peers. This interactive approach fostered a deeper understanding of how to apply these tools in everyday situations.
One of the most impactful moments of the session was when Erik shared stories of leaders who had successfully transformed their organizations by leaning into difficult conversations. These examples resonated deeply with attendees, showcasing the power of courage, empathy, and intentional communication in driving meaningful change.
As the session concluded, the room buzzed with energy and ideas. Attendees shared their reflections, many noting how the session had shifted their mindset about conflict and communication. “I realized that avoiding tough conversations only amplifies problems,” one participant said. “Now I feel equipped to approach them in a way that builds relationships instead of damaging them.”
The WDMLA is committed to equipping leaders with the tools they need to thrive in a complex and dynamic world. Erik Dominguez’s session on “Crucial Conversations” was a testament to this mission, leaving attendees empowered to lead with authenticity and impact.
Thank you to Erik for sharing his expertise, to our participants for their engagement, and to our sponsors for making this invaluable session possible. Together, we are cultivating a new generation of leaders who are ready to tackle challenges head-on and drive progress in our community.