Sometimes there is no “right” answer. 

Just different perspectives.

In the first few days of rehearsal with a new script, writers, actors, directors, designers, and staff come together for “table work.” It’s just that, sitting around a table before we get up on our feet. Each person brings their perspective, thoughts, and ideas, and we begin to hash out the story we are going to tell. Together. The room practically vibrates with energy and anticipation.  Table work drives home the importance of collaboration and ensemble. It is one of my favorite things about being an actor. 

In the first days and weeks of reopening your business or coming back to work post-pandemic, there will likely be new people, new roles, or new leadership at the table for those team meetings aka table reads. Many colleagues and clients will be carrying a load of differing thoughts, feelings, and perspectives into a new environment. Lots of changes. Lots of opportunities to bring everyone together. 

When you choose to #BeCurious about another person’s point of view, you bring presence, empathy, and curiosity into the room. And you give others permission and space to do the same.

So...an authentic conversation happens. And perhaps a shift in thinking or a change for the better happens. Then a stronger team aka ensemble happens.

If the pandemic has taught me anything, it’s that in spite of physical distancing, we still yearn to connect. Each of us brings a different perspective to the story. Encourage, support and listen to your ensemble. That's when the magic happens.

What’s YOUR sticky moment?

That bite-sized, easily digestible, 1-minute story that gets your audience’s attention within the first 30-seconds of when you begin speaking.

A sticky moment should perk up your audience’s ears, so they want to learn more.

A sticky moment should show (not tell) your audience what differentiates you or your business from your competition.  

A clearly defined sticky moment creates a lasting impactful impression in an interview, a capabilities deck, and that high stakes presentation.

So don’t just tell them you are an outside-the-box thinker or your company takes a non-traditional approach to solving a problem….show them with a sticky moment, near the top of your conversation.  Not 1/3 of the way into your pitch.

Of course, your audience expects you to back up your story with data and stats. Life is not a bowl of candies.  But…

People will remember you, and how you connected what you do with what they need.  So if you want to be remembered, if you want to grow your business, begin that phone call, meeting or presentation with a sticky moment.

Define it.  Rehearse it.  Be remembered.

Listen Much?

As we all navigate this new remote lifestyle, which likely includes more conference calls, make the active choice to be more engaged by listening as if:
-You are willing to have your mind changed
-You expect each person on the call to know at least one thing that you don't

Choosing to be more engaged leads to more #connections, even remotely! #call  #listening  #remote