Technically Dialogue  is conversation between two or more people as a feature of a book, play, or movie.  A conversation is an exchange of ideas through spoken word.

Organization Speak

I find it interesting how structured environments twist the meaning of words to fit the context.  In an organizational setting you will hear reference to having an open dialogue with your colleagues.

Leaders in particular use this practice.  Most of us don’t tune in to the subtle difference in meaning between an open dialogue (say in a team setting)  and an open discussion or conersation.

Dialogues have a scripted component, are structured and intentionally on display.  That is to some extent they are a performance.

Try a dialogue at home

Would you have a dialogue with your spouse, open or otherwise you would not.  The home contenxt is a discussion or conversation.

It is doubtful you would make much headway with a significant other if you had already scripted the result (I very much doubt they would follow their part of the script.)

Think of situations where you have tried to have a dialogue with your kids (yeah, we try anyway).  For example “You can take the car if home by ten” The sripted answer is “Got it”.  Rarely the actual response.

Back to The Organized Gruop

Leaders can have me shaking with fear when offering the opportunity for an open dialogue.  More like a lecture with fill in the blanks answers.