Tuesday Tidbit
We would all agree that two-way communication on our teams is important. It’s somewhat ironic, then, that we often tire of talking about it! Here’s a new way to introduce the topic; a quick game that is a perfect intro for team meetings. All you need is some regular 8.5 x 11 paper (one page for each person, inlcuding yourself) and 5 minutes.
Introduce the activity to your team : “We are going to play a game that will show us some important things about communication. Pick up your sheet of paper and hold it in front of you. Now, close your eyes and follow the directions I will give you—no peeking! And, you cannot ask questions.”
Give the following directions, while doing the same with your own sheet of paper. Pause a moment after giving each instruction to give the group time to comply:
“The first thing I want you to do is to fold your sheet of paper in half. Now tear off the upper right-hand corner. Fold it in half again and tear off the upper left hand corner of the sheet. Fold it in half again. Now tear off the lower corner of the sheet.” (Do not specify which one.)
After the tearing is complete, say something like “Now open your eyes, and let’s see what you have. If I did a good job of communicating and you did a good job of listening, all of our sheets should look the same!” Hold your sheet up for them to see. It is unlikely any sheet will match yours exactly.
Observe and comment on the differences. There will probably be some laughter.
Ask the group why no one’s paper looks just like yours. (You will probably get responses like “You didn’t let us ask questions!” or “Your directions could be interpreted in different ways.”)
Then, lead into a discussion on the need for clear, concise, two-way communication in the workplace and on your team.
Tuesday Tidbits are weekly messages I send to my leadership team. They are generally short & sweet, often focused on leadership or teamwork, always positive and, hopefully, motivational. I hope you also find some meaning in them.
Tags: Business, Communication, Teamwork
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