Pick a staff meeting-any staff meeting-then sit back and observe the show. What do you see? It's not only the person speaking who communicates a message. I'll wager that among the typical cast of characters, you'll notice several kinds of interaction styles that seem ubiquitous across a variety of settings.
First, there's the person totally engrossed in a mobile device who's only physically present. Next is someone who appears soured on life (you know the look) and drains all positive energy out of the room. Then there's the lounger who sprawls out looking bored.
The socializer comes along and tries to create a party atmosphere, using the forum as a great excuse to talk with friends. The comedian grabs center stage whenever possible and relishes the role of entertainer. Cynics project general distrust and impart their version of reality onto any subject matter that could potentially instill optimism for a better future.
With any luck, this group also includes a cadre of individuals who participate in a manner that adds value and helps to achieve worthwhile goals. If the meeting is well-moderated and the behaviors don't become disruptive, the comedian can lighten the mood; the socializer can help plan events and inspire staff engagement; and the cynic can readily point out potential problems and issues that require resolution prior to moving forward. The others? Well...you decide what kind of people you'd want as part of your "A" team if you were charged with achieving something important.
Whether I'm an attendee or the meeting chair, I like to pay particular attention to interpersonal group dynamics. I encourage you to do the same. This exercise isn't just a way to pass the time-it can offer valuable professional development insights regarding how to behave or not, as the case may be. How you present yourself in these forums has significant implications for your career as well as your relationships. Key factors include how much or how little you speak up, how you interact with others, your level of premeeting preparation, and your willingness to take on necessary tasks or assignments.
If you're going to attend a meeting, don't sell yourself or your team short: Commit to connect, engage, and contribute.
Until next time,
Linda Laskowski-Jones, MS, APRN, ACNS-BC, CEN, FAWM, FAAN
Editor-in-Chief, Nursing2016 Vice President: Emergency & Trauma Services Christiana Care Health System, Wilmington, Del.