Dialogue

The origin of the word ‘dialogue’ stems from the Greek language with a focus on an exchange of ideas, or a conversation between two or more parties.

Somewhere along the way the word lost its meaning. Today, in many corporate circles, it means ‘shut up and listen’ because I am the boss and because I told you so.

For any dialog to be effective, there must be a focus on active listening, and on keeping an open mind to alternative perspectives.

A dictate by a ‘higher up’ does not constitute a dialogue. And all bosses are not leaders.