Roleplay Scenario
Scenario Overview
You've noticed or experienced a situation where someone was excluded or a bias was expressed during team interactions. You need to address this behavior to promote a more inclusive environment without escalating tension or creating defensiveness.
Roles & Setup
Role A – Concerned Team Member (You)
You've noticed a recurring pattern of exclusion or bias.
Your goal: Address the issue constructively and propose a more inclusive approach.
Role B – Team Member Involved in the Incident
You may be unaware of the impact of your actions.
Your goal: Understand the concern and engage in a constructive dialogue.
Role C – Neutral Observer (Optional)
You're a third party who witnessed the incident.
Your goal: Provide additional perspective and support resolution.
Suggested Openers
Concerned Team Member:
- “Hey, can we chat about something I noticed in our last meeting? I think it’s important for us as a team.”
- “I’d love to talk about something I’ve been thinking about regarding our team interactions.”
Team Member Involved:
- “Of course, I’m open to hearing your thoughts. Let’s talk about it.”
- “Sure, I’d like to understand your perspective.”
Neutral Observer:
- “I noticed the dynamic too and am here to help facilitate the conversation.”
- “I’d be happy to share what I observed if it helps."
Sample Roleplay in Action
Concerned Team Member:
“Hey, I wanted to talk about something from our last meeting. When [Name] tried to share their ideas, it felt like we moved on pretty quickly without really acknowledging them. It seemed like their perspective was missed, especially during the [specific topic] discussion.”
Team Member Involved:
“I didn’t realize that happened. I definitely didn’t mean to exclude anyone. Can you give me more details?”
Concerned Team Member:
“Sure. It seemed like when [Name] was speaking, we didn’t give their points the same attention as others. For example, during the [project issue] discussion, their input wasn’t explored, even though it could have provided valuable insight.”
Neutral Observer:
“I noticed that too. [Name]'s ideas were solid, and we might have missed an opportunity to dig deeper into them.”
Team Member Involved:
“Thanks for bringing this up. I appreciate you pointing it out. I’ll make sure to be more mindful and ensure everyone gets a chance to contribute.”
Concerned Team Member:
“Great, I’m glad we could have this conversation. Maybe in future meetings, we could have a quick check to make sure everyone’s had a chance to voice their thoughts or follow up on any missed contributions?”
Team Member Involved:
“That’s a good idea. I’m all for finding ways to make our meetings more inclusive.”
Neutral Observer:
“Agreed. I can also help by checking in with quieter team members after meetings.”
Post-Scenario Tools
Curveball Mode (Optional)
Introduce one of these twists mid-roleplay to test adaptability:
- The team member involved becomes defensive or dismissive.
- New evidence of bias or exclusion surfaces during the conversation.
- Another team member unexpectedly joins the conversation.
Reflection Checklist
As the Concerned Team Member:
- Did you address the issue without assigning blame?
- Did you suggest constructive changes?
- Did you maintain an open and respectful dialogue?
As the Team Member Involved:
- Did you listen actively and avoid defensiveness?
- Did you acknowledge the concern and commit to improvement?
- Did you contribute to finding a solution?
As the Neutral Observer:
- Did you support a balanced conversation?
- Did you offer helpful observations without taking sides?
- Did you help identify practical steps forward?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Approaching the conversation with accusations.
- Avoiding the issue due to discomfort.
- Overgeneralizing or making assumptions about intent.
- Failing to suggest or agree on actionable steps.
Pro Tip
Addressing bias or exclusion requires sensitivity and a focus on fostering understanding. Frame the conversation around shared goals for team improvement and inclusivity.