“Power of words”: impact, concerns and applications of nonviolent communication training

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a training program on nonviolent communication (NVC) and assess its impact, concerns and applicability to the context of work. This study also focuses on the factors that influence the retention and application of the skills acquired during the training after three months of completion of the program.Design/methodology/approachThis study uses a qualitative approach. Purposive sampling was used, and 14 semi-structured interviews were conducted to study the impact of an NVC training program titled “Power of words”. Thematic analysis based on Kirkpatrick’s model of training evaluation was used to arrive at the findings.FindingsNVC training was found to have created a sustainable shift in perspective and behaviour of the participants; however, the learning and application of the NVC skills were found to be dependent on individual and contextual factors. The role of the facilitator was found to be crucial in creating safe spaces that were essential for open sharing and effective practice. NVC was found to be easier to apply to contexts of personal relationships; however, in a work context, it holds immense scope to create both organisational- and employee-level outcomes.Research limitations/implicationsThis study has implications for developing theory on NVC and its consequences to humanistic management and employee thriving.Practical implicationsThis study has implications for developing theory on NVC and its consequences for humanistic management and employee thriving. This study has practical implications for humanising communication at work and also has implications for leaders, managers, coaches, counsellors, HR professionals and OD professionals, to improve employee or client experiences. This study also has implications for the potential community development.Social implicationsThis study also has implications for the potential community development as a consequence of NVC training.Originality/valueThe research on the application of NVC training to context of work is very limited, and also, there is very limited research on both the effectiveness of online training and the retention and application of the learning after three months of completion of the program. This study fills these gaps.