Conversation Agreements
Setting the Tone for Respectful Dialogue
The One Small Step Conversation Agreements are a shared set of guidelines that help participants enter conversations with care, curiosity, and mutual respect.
Rather than strict rules, these agreements establish a common understanding of how people will engage with one another — creating the conditions for honest sharing, thoughtful listening, and meaningful connection across difference.
Conversation Agreements are designed to be shared at the very start of a conversation.
Tip: Agreements can be read aloud, displayed visually, or printed and placed where participants can easily see them.
Use these agreements to:
- Set clear expectations before dialogue begins
- Create a sense of safety and shared responsibility
- Support conversations across political, cultural, or personal differences
- Reduce tension and defensiveness
- Reinforce One Small Step listening practices
See how these agreements can come to life.
Explore program toolkits built for real conversations in real communities.