Watch what you say
Watch what you say
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Learning Objectives
- Understand how language impacts conflict escalation or resolution.
- Increase awareness of communication habits in tense situations.
- Practice using language that de-escalates conflict and fosters calm dialogue.
- Build skills to intentionally choose words that improve workplace relationships.
Materials Needed
- Flip chart or whiteboard and markers
- Note cards or sheets for brainstorming
- Optional: Sample workplace conflict scripts for role-plays
- Timer or stopwatch
Instructions
- Divide participants into pairs.
- Ask pairs to spend 5 minutes brainstorming a list of words or phrases that tend to escalate conflict in tense situations.
- Gather groups to share their lists; chart all responses visibly for everyone.
- Then, ask pairs to spend another 5 minutes brainstorming words or phrases that help de-escalate conflict or maintain calm.
- Collect and chart responses, then facilitate a comparison discussion between escalation and de-escalation language lists.
- Optional Role-Play Variation: Provide pairs with a scripted workplace conflict scenario. They role-play twice—once using escalation language and once with de-escalation phrases.
- Hold a debrief to discuss differences in tone, feelings, and outcomes.
- Reflection Exercise: Ask participants to write privately one phrase they will stop using in conflict and one phrase they will start using instead.
Facilitation Tips
- Create a supportive environment encouraging honest sharing without judgment.
- Use a timer to keep brainstorming and role-play segments focused and energetic.
- Remind participants to reflect on how words affect emotions and behavior—both their own and others’.
- Help quieter participants contribute by inviting input or pairing thoughtfully.
- Manage sensitive conversations with care.
Debrief & Discussion Questions
- Have you experienced conflicts where words from the escalation list were used? What was the impact?
- How have words from the de-escalation list altered conflicts in your experience?
- Which list was easier to create and why?
- What does this say about our natural communication tendencies under pressure?
- What challenges might arise when trying to switch from escalation to calm language?
- How can you practice choosing your words better during conflict?
Related Training Material Packages
- Conflict Resolution Training Package
- Communicating with Clarity & Impact – Training Course Material
- Emotional Intelligence Training Package
Free Assessment Tools & Quizzes
Get Started Today
Empower your team to choose words that calm rather than inflame tension. Use this activity to raise awareness, inspire change, and foster healthier workplace communication.
Download Conflict Resolution Training PackageTraining resources from TrainingCourseMaterial.com — instant download, fully editable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we use real scenarios from our team?
Yes—anonymize details and set ground rules. Start with neutral examples, then progress to real scenarios once safety is established.
What counts as de-escalation language?
Curiosity and needs-based phrasing such as, “Help me understand…,” “What would a good outcome look like?,” or “Let’s pause and reset.”
How big can the group be?
Works with small to large groups. Use pairs or triads and collect phrases on a central board to keep everyone engaged.
Any virtual delivery tips?
Use breakout rooms for pairs, a shared doc to collect phrases, and quick polls to rank top de-escalation language.
How do we measure impact after the workshop?
Track reductions in “trigger” phrases and increases in calm-language prompts in meetings over 2–4 weeks; pair with the quizzes above.
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