How to Work with (Almost) Anyone

Build better relationships at work based on safety, vitality and resiliency using the “Keystone Conversation.”

Most people leave a job because they don’t get along with their co-workers or manager. If you’re someone who doesn’t get along well with others, this could mean a lot of job changes in your life. Skip the constant moving and learn the vital professional skill of working with others in healthier, more sustainable ways. 

Understanding how to build a “Best Possible Relationship” (BPR) is a crucial aspect of your professional development. This approach allows you to maintain brilliant connections, contain dysfunction in challenging ones and quickly get back on track when solid relationships waver.

Every BPR has certain foundational qualities. First, it requires psychological safety: trust that you will not face negative consequences for voicing your thoughts or questions or admitting worries or mistakes. Second, the relationship needs to feel “vital” and motivating: It must build on a balance of support and challenge, enable meaningful work, and promote continuous learning and...