Introductions

Hello

Just finished meetings today that outlined the importance of introducing yourself (a nod to the book, Checklist Manifesto).  A case study from an independent school where a divide between faculty and staff was creating growing tensions.  An outside facilitator worked with both sides, bringing attention to the issue.  No formal mediation was done, just focus groups to collect information and feedback.  Two weeks later the issue was reportedly resolved in feedback from the faculty and support staff.  No action steps had been implemented, no group discussions, gatherings or reports.  It appears that a raised consciousness had allowed both sides to take the extra step of introducing themselves to each other and individuals spent a few extra minutes having meaningful conversations.

Who could you introduce yourself to that you have taken for granted or assumed you had already been introduced?  What difference might it make?

Remembering Hello

I facilitated a planning meeting for a client who is preparing for an upcoming organizational retreat. A small group of five people and myself met. I knew we had an ambitious agenda to cover so I jumped in during a pause in the conversation to say ‘shall me get started?’ I sent around some handouts and began to ask everyone to look at the first page when one of the participants asked if we could all introduce ourselves. ‘Of course,’ I responded.

The two minute biography that each person gave was fascinating. Full professional careers working in multiple sectors with nationally recognized organizations and start-up operations that never got high enough to be picked up by radar. Lives that jumped around the globe. Diverse perspectives and multiple talents.

For the rest of the meeting I had a deeper appreciation for every one’s comments because I had a perspective on their past. I had made the assumption the group knew each other. It turned out that a couple of the members were brand new to the organization. It was a great reminder of the power of introductions.