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By: Kriss Barlow, RN, MBA | kbarlow@barlowmccarthy.com
This time of year, it is important to reconnect with the internal base. We want to make certain we’re aligned on strategy and priorities for the year ahead. It’s also a really good time to make sure we take a look back. Today, we rely on text, email and zoom to connect with our internal stakeholders. They are okay but, complacency may be creeping into virtual conversations. As the leader/initiator of the meeting, the timing might be right to boost participation. Here are a few ideas to get you thinking!
- Prepare good questions. Be ready with a few good questions that require more than a yes or no answer. Using open-ended questions, especially at the onset will set the stage for more discussion. Questions generally take the conversation deeper by disclosing the what, when or how. They can also be used to encourage inclusion.
- Paraphrase ideas to keep the discussion moving. As the conversation leader, capture notes and work to reframe what you heard. It not only confirms the accuracy of what you heard, it also becomes a nice way to set up the next question you want to ask. The “tell me more…”
- Facilitate vs. dominate. Work to guide the conversation vs. becoming the main (only) voice. Preparation is key and it is especially challenging when you have some attendees who are not very engaged. Start with a clear agenda that is shared at the onset and create an opening that says, the intent of today’s call is to hear from everyone on the topic of ____. Perhaps it goes without saying, but some self-control may be in order if you are inclined to take over a conversation!
- Everybody shares. Make sure everyone is a contributor. The easiest way for me to manage this is to keep track of who has spoken- and who hasn’t. Plan a few questions specifically for this purpose. You can also tag people to ensure participation, like saying, “Mary, is that also true in your service area?”
Another good way to encourage sharing is to ask attendees to agree or disagree. It’s never meant to create friction, rather it’s an easy way to say, “I know imaging is sometimes different than acute care, is that the case in this area or are you aligned with Jim’s reply?” - Clear next steps. Engage attendees in the next steps. Again, taking good notes will be essential. As you summarize the next actions, call out the role you plan to take and then suggest ideas for others. Be specific, encourage teams to work on topics together if that makes sense and set a deadline.
My hope is that these ideas get you excited for your work with internal stakeholders and for your ability to lead a virtual meeting with them. Everything is just better when we’ve got strong internal relationships. And, the same ideas hold true for team meetings!
Creating good conversations is just the beginning! Are you ready to dive deeper? Please reach out to me and we can set aside some time to talk about your program and needs, kbarlow@barlowmccarthy.com.
There is no such thing as a worthless conversation, provided you know what to listen for. And questions are the breath of life for a conversation. – James Nathan Miller