UPDATED AS OF MAY 2024​

What Are Necessary Conversations?​

Necessary Conversations are discussions about complexities that have the potential to create division within our ranks. These discussions promote mission readiness and team connectedness, and are key to a tough, resilient and adaptive Navy. The aim is to build on a foundation of Navy culture in which:​

• People are empowered to share diverse perspectives.​

• Leaders are equipped with insight to foster connectedness and inclusion through active listening. ​

• Teams build protective factors by strengthening connectedness and inclusion. ​​

What Are Necessary Conversations Not?​

Necessary Conversations are designed to complement, not replace existing formal frameworks for dialogue.​​ For example: 

All-Hands Calls ​

• While both are a platform to exchange information that impacts mission readiness, All-Hands Calls are typically led by a Commanding Officer in a more directive, unidirectional manner. All-Hands Calls may conclude with leaders providing impromptu answers in open forums, while Necessary Conversations are intended to encourage multidirectional dialogue without immediate solution-based expectations.​​

CMEO Informal Resolution System (IRS) or EEO Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)​

• IRSs, ADRs, and Necessary Conversations all involve dialogue to address various behaviors and emphasize understanding and empathy over punitive measure. While IRS/ADR processes focus on specific behaviors that may require legal action, Necessary Conversations should never be used in lieu of EO policy.​​

Command Climate Assessment (CCA) Focus Group ​

• Focus Groups and Necessary Conversations are key to identifying and addressing climate and culture within commands to promote positive change. Necessary Conversations facilitate informal, open dialogue aimed at bridging cultural divides, while Focus Groups employ a more structured approach, aiming to solve problems raised in CCAs. ​​

Frequently Asked Questions …​

Who Should Have Them?​

• Any Person, Every Leader, All Navy Teams. Any person – Civilian or Sailor, from E1 to O10 – can start a Necessary Conversation; every leader is charged to engage, within each and every Navy Team.  While some may be more skilled at having Necessary Conversations during everyday interactions, Necessary Conversations are valuable for those who are less comfortable navigating contemporary challenges. ​​

When Should They Occur?​

• Scheduled. Ideally, Necessary Conversations are deliberate and scheduled to ensure time and space is dedicated to the topic.​

• Unscheduled. Don't let perfect timing prevent Necessary Conversations; the only wrong way to have one is to not have one at all. Don't avoid an unscheduled Necessary Conversation is you think it might be what is needed for optimal performance. ​​

Where Should They Happen?​

Necessary Conversation skills are versatile, suitable for various settings. For the most effective and inclusive dialogue, choose a location that promotes concentration and comfort, free from distractions. Ideal spaces ensure a neutral and engaging environment for all.​

• Ideal Spaces: Neutral and engaging environment for all, like ready rooms or conference areas. ​

• Impromptu Settings: Adapt to various environments like mess decks or during a run with a shipmate. ​​​​​

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!​
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How are your Necessary Conversations going?