As a strategist, I have worked with many political teams across our great nation. I often find that regardless of State or City the problems look and sound the same. I deal with crisis management so I am going to focus on in-party conflict.

When we do not anticipate conflict we will react instead of respond.

We have to be focused on finding solutions not expressing feelings. Being active listeners will be how we find the common ground. Often we see the world closer in reach than we think we do.

Meetings: Sometimes it takes some uncomfortable conversations that result in good work being done. Sometimes keeping the peace can result in rules being violated, investigations and conflict being much more combative than if a person had raised a concern to begin with.

Lateral Engagement: Look at the leadership that is adjacent to you. Don't manuever with higher ambitions motivating you and don't move as a dictator would to speak lower to those under you. Find common leadership so that delegation is a partnership.

The GOP Data Center: Find ways to access your precincts database and be a part of the groundwork that gets people registered, excited and engaged.

Gratitude: Always look over to those who seek to go above and beyond. We are quick to complain but often leave out the gratitude we have for our fellow workers.

Concrete: Please keep your arguments to concrete facts. Bring out a chapter and verse to back your arguments and if you do not have one hold your statement until you do. Use your by-laws, constitution, SREC Rules, and platform to help construct your arguments.

Inspire One ANother- Your work should be with personal motives in check. Make sure you are doing things for your community as well as yourself not just for your own benefit.

When we want to connect:

Listen without intent to respond

Only respond to what someone has said

Mirror what others have said

The 5 rules for constructive communication:

Do not use blame, criticism, accusation, punishment or humiliation

Decide in advance what you want to accomplish

Say only what you need to say, nothing else

Don’t ask questions that don’t have actual answers

Always be ready to stop when things get too heated

Stay away from subjective arguments:

Play your arguments out loud. Steer away from arguments that are broad or emotional. Be specific and clear.

To go over social moral codes review the Podcast Video listed to this blog for the full breakdown and sample arguments.