1) To Increase Emotional Intelligence & Open Sharing:
At the end of each team meeting, ask for one takeaway from each team member: a word or a sentence about what they are thinking or feeling.
In the beginning, you’ll want to lead and model the way. You might say: I’m excited about this initiative; I’m encouraged by our conversation; I’m concerned we’re ran out of time; I‘m frustrated that we got stuck; I’m energized by your ideas….
As you go around the room, you may hear from others things like: Relieved, puzzled, concerned, distracted, tired, frustrated, grateful….
You’re letting your team know how you feel, and by example inviting others to openly and honestly contribute. You’re also gaining invaluable information on the next steps forward while building trust for better problem solving and stress management.
2)To Increase Spirited Discussions, Risk Taking & Psychological Safety:
Create a new role in your team meetings of Devil’s Advocate.
Rotate this position to a different person in each meeting. Their job is to generate deeper questioning and curiosity by asking the WHY behind the ideas, decisions and discussions.
Some team members will embrace this role with ease, while others may find it uncomfortable. Regardless, it instantly grants permission for team members to speak up, and will shift the team dynamic to a new (or renewed) norm that welcomes the dissenting voices.
3)To Increase Trust, Communication and Motivation:
Practice Positive Feedback
Think of a colleague or direct report with whom you’d like to have a better relationship. Once a week, for the next three weeks, provide a person ONE piece of specific and positive feedback regarding something they’ve recently done that you appreciate, admire or value.