Introduction: What You’ll Learn
This simulation helps you facilitate the delicate process of rebuilding trust within a team following a significant conflict or breach. You’ll guide the team through open communication, empathy, and actionable steps to restore a positive dynamic.
You’ll practice:
- Creating a safe space for open dialogue
- Encouraging empathy and understanding
- Facilitating conflict resolution and trust-building activities
- Setting actionable steps for moving forward
Step-by-Step Simulation
Scene 1: Setting the Stage
Facilitator: "Hey team, thanks for coming together today. We're going to focus on rebuilding trust after what happened recently. This is a safe space — we're here to have an open and honest conversation without any judgment. Let's try to understand each other and figure out how we can move forward."
Facilitator: "I'll kick things off. I know the conflict has put a strain on our team, and I want to help us get back to a more supportive and clear way of working together. I'm here to support everyone as we work through this."
Facilitator: "Thanks for listening. Who’d like to share next? Remember, no judgment here."
Scene 2: Open Sharing and Empathy
Sara: "I’ve felt kind of isolated since the disagreement. It’s been tough to collaborate when trust is shaken. I miss the way we used to work together."
Facilitator: "Thanks for sharing that, Sara. It’s important we hear these feelings. Remember, we’re here to listen and understand each other’s perspectives. Alex, how about you?"
Alex: "I realize I played a part in the misunderstanding. I didn’t intend to dismiss anyone’s ideas, and I see now that I should have communicated better."
Facilitator: "Thanks for your honesty, Alex. Acknowledging our roles helps. Priya, would you like to share your thoughts?"
Priya: "I’ve been stressed, feeling like we’re not on the same page. I want us all to be aligned again."
Facilitator: "Thanks, Priya. It’s clear we all care about resolving this. Let’s talk about how we can support each other and rebuild."
Scene 3: Actionable Trust-Building
Facilitator: "Let’s brainstorm some practical steps we can take to rebuild trust. What are some small, immediate actions we can commit to?"
Leo: "How about regular check-ins to make sure everyone feels heard and aligned?"
Facilitator: "Great idea, Leo. Regular communication can really help. Anyone else have suggestions?"
Sara: "Maybe we can do a monthly team-building activity to strengthen our bond."
Facilitator: "Love that! Team activities can help us reconnect. Any other thoughts?"
Alex: "I’ll make sure to clarify and document decisions better to avoid confusion."
Facilitator: "Perfect. Clarity in communication is crucial. Let’s jot these down and see who can lead each one."
Scene 4: Wrapping Up and Moving Forward
Facilitator: "So here’s what we’ve agreed on:"
- Regular check-ins — to keep us aligned and address any issues early.
- Monthly team-building activities — to strengthen our connections.
- Clear documentation — to avoid misunderstandings.
Facilitator: "Who’d like to take the lead on these?"
(Leo will organize check-ins, Sara will plan team activities, and Alex will handle documentation.)
Facilitator: "Thank you, everyone. Let’s keep each other accountable and keep the lines of communication open. We’re a strong team, and I’m confident we can come back stronger."
Mini Roleplay Challenges
Challenge 1: Someone feels defensive and shuts down.
- Best Response: “It’s okay to feel that way. We’re here to support each other, so share when you’re ready.”
Challenge 2: A team member blames others instead of collaborating.
- Best Response: “Let’s focus on moving forward together and how we can support each other.”
Challenge 3: The team struggles to propose actionable steps.
- Best Response: “Let’s start small. What’s one thing we can do differently today?”
Optional Curveball Mode
- Emotional responses increase tension.
- A team member is reluctant to participate.
- The conversation veers off-topic into unrelated issues.
Practice handling each with empathy and refocusing on trust-building.
Reflection Checklist
Facilitation
- Did I create a safe environment for sharing?
- Did I encourage empathy and understanding?
Outcomes
- Did we identify actionable steps for rebuilding trust?
- Did everyone feel heard and involved in the process?
Leadership & Support
- Was I empathetic and supportive?
- Did I maintain focus on positive, constructive dialogue?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Allowing discussions to turn into blame sessions
- Failing to ensure everyone’s voice is heard
- Not following up on agreed actions
- Ignoring emotional cues or tensions