Conversation Café

When to use Conversation Café

Use Conversation Café when a group needs to process a difficult situation, explore a complex topic, or build trust and understanding among diverse perspectives.

What it solves

Arguments based on misunderstanding; difficulty in generating new ideas after a setback; lack of psychological safety for sharing feelings.

How to run Conversation Café, step by step

1. State the theme of the conversation as a question. (2 minutes)
2. Explain the four rounds of conversation and the use of the talking object. (3 minutes)
3. Distribute talking objects and read the six Conversation Café agreements. Ask for a volunteer host at each table. (5 minutes)
4. First round (talking object): Each person shares their initial thoughts, feelings, or actions related to the theme. (1 minute per person)
5. Second round (talking object): Each person shares their thoughts and feelings after listening to everyone else. (1 minute per person)
6. Third round: Open conversation (talking object optional). (20-40 minutes)
7. Fourth round (talking object): Each member shares their key takeaways. (5-10 minutes)

Materials needed

• Chairs arranged around small tables
• Talking object (e.g., stone, marker)
• Flip chart paper (optional)
• Markers (optional)

Facilitator tips

• Always use the talking object to maintain focus and ensure equal participation.
• Remind participants of the six agreements before each round.
• Encourage the host to gently guide the conversation back to the agreements if needed.

Common pitfalls

• Participants dominating the conversation: Remind them of the agreements and the role of the talking object.
• Drifting off-topic: Gently redirect the conversation back to the central theme.
• Focusing on action items instead of understanding: Reiterate the purpose of the activity is sense-making, not action planning.

Variations

• World Café style: Have participants move to different tables every 20 minutes.
• Use Wicked Questions to deepen the conversation.
• Combine with W³ (What, So What, Now What?) to move into action planning.

Running it online or hybrid

Use breakout rooms for smaller groups and a digital talking object (e.g., raise hand function). Ensure clear communication of agreements in the chat.

What it produces

Shared understanding of a complex issue; identification of key takeaways; a consensual hunch about how to move forward.

Origin

Liberating Structure developed by Henri Lipmanowicz and Keith McCandless. Inspired by and adapted from Vicki Robin and Susan Partnow. — source

Build a session around Conversation Café

METODIC places Conversation Café inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.

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