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three things: "I have an opinion already on this issue." "I am well prepared with supporting details." "The issue is bigger and more important than the routine ones we deal with." |
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From your physically elevated position, your words take on more authority; the group is likely to grant you control of the meeting, even if only temporarily. As a result of all these dynamics, you probably will get less feedback on your idea. Those who support will withhold their comments, thinking that you obviously sound authoritative and need no help in garnering others' opinions. Those who disagree with you may hate to buck authority before an audience; they often save their negative comments for the hallways. |
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You can sometimes "have it both ways" by presenting your proposal standing up and then taking a seat for the follow-up discussion and turning over the facilitation to someone else. |
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Tip 404: Opt for a stool if you want to walk the fence. |
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If you still can't decide whether to stand or sit, you may want to opt for a bar stool. You convey authority because of the physically elevated position and the "prepared" appearance while creating a relaxed attitude by sitting down. |
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Tip 405: Take stage; Don't just "Drift In." |
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When you intend to present your own ideas, take stage just as a performer does. None of this "Just a minute, before we go on here. I've been thinking about something." "Maybe this has already come up in earlier meetings, and I missed it." "Don't want to get us off track, but it seems to me we should be looking at this a little differently." ''I'm not saying I disagree with what we've already said, but just another, you know, thought about how we could approach it. . . ." |
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Instead, when you want attention, take it. Sit or stand erectly. Get your papers in order. Project your voice. Use a confident tone. Spit it out. |
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Tip 406: Grab 'em fast; forget the warm-up drill. |
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Ever since students have been assigned high school essays, teachers have required introductory paragraphs. Business professionals are still stuck in that rut. Forget the introduction when you're offering informal comments. Start at the point of new information or the new idea. "Two comments: The machine will be quicker and easier to run." Then pause and take your cue from others. If they want elaboration, add it. If they have questions, answer them. |
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