The 7 elements of conversational leadership
As we kick off 2026 I’m thinking about how I can embrace the principles of Conversational Leadership to look at my world differently.
In December I completed a course on the topic run by David Whyte’s Invitas: The Institute for Conversational Leadership. Every other Monday afternoon for eight sessions, a cohort of ten participants from Salt Lake City to Istanbul got together to explore the seven elements of Conversational Leadership. I've been a fan of David Whyte's poetry for some years - I was curious to learn about his take on leadership.
I know that we can spend a lot of time in our careers and business lives focused on controlling the narrative, trying to know the answer. This course reminded me of the benefits of getting comfortable with the unknown, going with the flow and embracing ambiguity. And that’s very relevant for me as I continue to live with cancer - having the courage to sit with not knowing the answer.
Here are the seven elements:
Stopping the Conversation You Are Having Now. It’s about pausing, letting go of old assumptions, and creating space for something new to emerge.
Cultivating a Friendship with the Unknown. Instead of rushing to fill silence or uncertainty, this principle invites us to embrace ambiguity, asking beautiful questions.
Coming to Ground. This is the practice of starting close in - taking the first step, even if it’s uncomfortable.
Robust Vulnerability. True leadership requires openness and courage. Vulnerability here is not weakness but strength - the willingness to admit uncertainty.
Artistry. Finding an outer craft to your inner artistry as a way of being fully in the world.
Making the Invitation. Leadership is about extending a hand, creating conditions for participation, and welcoming others into meaningful dialogue.
The Harvest of Presence: The culmination of conversational leadership: being fully present, attentive, and responsive.
Thanks Dr Liz Greenaway and David Cotson for facilitating and holding a space for us all, I'll miss our time together.
You can find out more about Invitas and the seven elements here.