Finding Common Ground

I like the question,

"What have others done to engage you?"

We work best by knowing what makes us "tick." If one tactic didn't engage us, why would we turn around and try it on someone else? This question allows us to reflect on what our influences are or have been. In my case, I must have a personal and emotional connection to catch my attention. I always taught my students to find the connections in what we were reading or writing about, so they could better internalize the topic.

The same holds true in my work now. My team's job is heavy on public speaking and on attempting to influence. We always strive to find the connection to our audience. For example, we recently received a purchase order from a district located near a major Army post. My colleague is a military wife, so beyond the thorough knowledge of the software, she has a great opportunity to connect and empathize on a different, deeper level. This should lead to greater trust and influence. While we have teammates that live closer to the area, the lived experiences she will bring to the implementation made her the better choice for the job.

We also appreciate a respect for time. Everyone on my team was once a classroom teacher. We know time is precious and there is no time to waste. We've all sat in on professional development and coaching sessions that did not prove fruitful. When I can offer virtual or video training that can be short and sweet, or customized for the individual teacher vs. a cookie-cutter, one-size-fits-all PD, this is much better received. Just as YouTube has revolutionized how people gain knowledge (Veritasium, 2014), some want us in their place and space, others want just the facts in a quick video and we are happy to meet these requests.

Finally, we know what works for one doesn't work for all. What may be engaging for one, may be offensive for another. For this reason, we like to survey our audience ahead of meetings to ensure we are at least in the ballpark of what is needed. As I work towards implementing my innovation plan and/or planning out my media project, I'll work to make it relevant to a broad audience while also bringing in points that will provide greater personal connections in individuals.

Veritasium. (2014, December 1). The most persistent myth [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GEmuEWjHr5c