In basic training on “How to Run an Effective Meeting”, how many times are we instructed to encourage the quiet to contribute verbally?
How many times do people go around the table asking everybody to say something?
And how many times are we asked to jot comments down on a flip chart?
The measure appears to be – how good are we at getting people to talk?
Some people don’t like to talk. Some are shy. Some want time to think before saying something.
So, where is the value in making these people feel embarrassed, uncomfortable and anxious? There isn’t any.
But… there is another way.
A way that makes people feel comfortable regardless of the way they naturally behave.
Here are a few of the behaviours that need a different approach:
- The verbose (windbags).
- Those who can’t sit still (fidgeters).
- Those wanting to scribble (doodlers).
- Those who are negative (Debbie Downers).
- Those with a hidden agenda (trouble makers).
- Those who repeat a comment again and again (annoying).
- Those who have all the answers (blockers).
Bosses who don’t allow free comment (dominant).
There are different ways to contribute. There are different methods to capture inputs and give every group member power to help direct the meeting, make decisions and be committed to the final outcome.
Getting people to speak may well be participation – but it’s not engagement! For change to stick, it needs engagement – Brain, Body, Belief.
