Roleplay Scenario
Scenario Overview
After a tense sprint planning meeting, some team members feel their voices weren't heard. This has led to some tension and lower morale. As the facilitator, your job is to help the team talk through these issues, understand each other better, and get back on track together.
Roles & Setup
Role A – Team Facilitator (You)
You’re leading the discussion to resolve the conflict.
Your goal: Make sure everyone feels heard and guide the team toward a solution that works for everyone.
Role B – Developer 1
You felt that your ideas were brushed aside during the meeting.
Your goal: Share your perspective and seek acknowledgment.
Role C – Developer 2
You were focused on deadlines and may have unintentionally dismissed others' input.
Your goal: Listen to your teammate and find a way to work better together.
Role D – Observer (Optional)
You’re here to provide feedback on how the discussion goes.
Your goal: Offer tips on communication and team dynamics.
Suggested Openers
Team Facilitator:
- “Thanks for being here, everyone. I know our last meeting was a bit rough. Let’s talk about what happened and how we can move forward.”
- “I’d like us to discuss any concerns from our last meeting and find a way to make sure everyone’s ideas are considered.”
Developer 1:
- “I felt like my suggestions didn’t get much attention last time, and it was a bit frustrating.”
- “I’d love to make sure we’re all getting a chance to contribute to the conversation.”
Developer 2:
- “I was really focused on our tight schedule, but I didn’t mean to overlook anyone’s input.”
- “Let’s figure out how we can balance our deadlines with making sure everyone feels heard.”
Sample Roleplay in Action
Team Facilitator:
“Thanks for joining today. I know things got a bit heated in our last meeting. Developer 1, could you start by sharing how you felt?”
Developer 1:
“Sure. I felt like my ideas weren’t really considered, and it seemed like we rushed through without much discussion.”
Developer 2:
“I’m sorry about that. I was really focused on keeping us on schedule, but I see now that I should have slowed down to include everyone’s input.”
Team Facilitator:
“It’s great to see us talking this out. Developer 2, what do you think we can do differently next time to make sure everyone’s ideas are considered?”
Developer 2:
“Maybe we could set aside specific time for everyone to share their thoughts before we finalize decisions. That way, we’re sure to hear from everyone.”
Developer 1:
“I like that idea. It seems fair and ensures that no one feels left out.”
Team Facilitator:
“Awesome. Let’s try this approach in our next meeting and check in with each other to see how it’s working. Does that sound good to everyone?”
Observer:
“This was a constructive conversation. Keeping this dialogue open will definitely help us improve how we work together.”
Post-Scenario Tools
Curveball Mode (Optional)
Introduce one of these scenarios to challenge participants:
- Developer 2 becomes defensive about their actions.
- An unexpected deadline change adds pressure to the conversation.
- Developer 1 feels the proposed solution isn’t sufficient.
Reflection Checklist
As the Facilitator:
- Did you create a comfortable space for open communication?
- Did you help guide the team towards a solution everyone supports?
- Did you make sure everyone had a chance to speak?
As a Participant:
- Did you express your thoughts clearly and respectfully?
- Did you actively listen to others?
- Did you contribute to finding a solution?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Allowing one person to dominate the conversation
- Ignoring underlying issues and focusing only on symptoms
- Rushing to a solution without everyone’s agreement
Pro Tip
Encouraging open and respectful dialogue is key to resolving conflicts effectively. Focus on understanding each perspective and building consensus for lasting team alignment.