CWCF Group Dynamics
By Russ Christianson, CoopZone Member
1. Group dynamics and process is the most challenging aspect of co-op development.
much harder than the technical aspects – feasibility studies, business plans, financial
forecasts, market research, incorporation, offering statements, etc.
Human brain has evolved over 2 million years to deal with interpersonal and group
dynamics
Everything boils down to building mutual trust and mutual benefit – without trust there is
nothing
For a co-op to work, there has to be mutual benefit and a feeling of fairness and equity –
no free riders
Intuition, reading body and facial language, emotions, underlying motivations
2. Initial meetings
Observation
Intuition
Radar
Open-ended questions
Active Listening
Shared vision, values, purpose, mission and goals – Whole Systems Feedback – Socratic
Method
3. Leadership
Identify informal and formal leaders
Motivation, inspiration, organizing, co-ordinating, group autonomy, democratic leadership
Ship of leaders – co-operation – different people bring different and complementary skills
to the group
Group process, meeting facilitation (proposed agendas, meeting process – let the group
lead and encourage open, honest discussion), and democratic decision-making (consensus)
4. Conflict Management
Conflict is inevitable, expect it
Conflict can be healthy – different perspectives lead to creative collaboration
Interpersonal skills are the most important aspect – listening, empathy, repeating back . . .
“My understanding of what you’re saying is . . .
Like any relationship, mutual trust is an essential ingredient, and trust can be strengthened
through a healthy conflict management process
If the conflict escalates and cannot be resolved, then someone will have to leave – it’s a
business, not a therapy group
5. Tools/Tests for the group and developer
Co-op Identity
Business Model Comparison
Co-op Self-Assessment
Co-op Vision
Feasibility
Group Process Evaluation
Decision-making
Business Plan
Co-op Governance