2. How have Esteban and Aoki’s perceptions of Karl’s communication contributed to a disconfirming communication climate for Aoki and Esteban? When you’ve watched the video online, critique and analyze this encounter based on the principles you learned in this chapter. Also online are three possible endings, each exploring different styles of handling conflict.

Then compare your work with the author’s suggested responses. Online, even more videos will let you continue the conversation with your instructor.

Aoki and Esteban have met to discuss a conversation they need to have with their boss, Karl. Esteban has just told Aoki that Karl has taken away another opportunity to give an important presentation.

Aoki: This is exactly why we need to have this talk with Karl. It’s like he never values our input. He can’t keep treating us like we’re incompetent. Esteban: I’m not sure he treats us like we’re incompetent.

Aoki: Just last Tuesday he grabbed the pictures for the Bosley project out of my office and put together the presentation after I went home. I had it all planned out and was going to put it together the next morning—it wasn’t even due until the end of the week!

Esteban: He thinks he’s helping. He just really cares about his work.

Aoki: But it’s not his work. He needs to trust and listen to his team. I put in a whole day planning that presentation and it turned out to be wasted when he took over.

Esteban: It really irks me when that happens. We should probably talk to him.

Aoki: The only way he’ll understand is if we assert ourselves.