As a facilitator I had the privilege of working with dozens of groups. This gave me the opportunity to observe many instances of interpersonal communications.
The predominant style was broadcast. That’s when people push their agenda and point of view forward. Three things you might notice ‘broadcast people’ doing are:
- not leaning into other people’s dialogue with curiosity;
- looking for opportunities to interrupt and speak;
- using questions to hijack the conversation.
Basically waiting to speak, and not listening.
A two part mini-mission.
- In meetings look out for broadcast behaviours in others.
- Notice when you’re tempted into broadcast mode yourself.
That’s it. Sounds simple doesn’t it? In the flow of conversation it’s not.
However, once you ‘get’ a concept you do start to see it everywhere. That noticing brings awareness. And that awareness offers you a window of opportunity to grow as a consultant.
You might like to check out what to do when you experience broadcast behaviours in others.