NCSL Legislative Video Resource Center

Legislators and staff are often faced with the challenge of making, or helping to make, decisions that satisfy diverse constituencies with competing interests. Learn about both the art and science behind finding consensus to address challenging public policy issues by exploring effective methods and proven techniques that produce agreement to policy challenges. Participants will walk away with new tools and skills for creating consensus among diverse interest groups.

The public sector, legislatures included, has faced intense criticism and scarce resources for many years now. However, there are techniques available to public employees to not only cope with these challenges but to thrive. Explore various ways in which legislative staff can expand their capacity and practice self-care in challenging times. The key is to transform our mindset from one that is in “survival mode” to one that seeks ways to be helpful and solution oriented.