Leadership Discussion
Gayle
30 Posts
I am responsible for leading a Book Club discussion with the management group on Rudy Guliani's book on Leadership. In the discussion regarding the first half of the book, nobody would talk. My co-leader and I asked questions about leadership charasteristics, personal leadership styles, etc. and there was no discussion. Does anyone have any suggestions on how we might constructively approach the topic of leadership in order to generate some interesting discussion?? Thanks for your help!
Comments
Of course, you have to know a little history. You could pick three other leaders with different styles.
Don't pick divas and football icons.
Hope this helps!
PORK
Maybe that, or something similar, would get the discussion going.
I also try to build in questions....like what % of this or that is caused by x, then I go around the room and ask for a number from everyone.
My final little trick, that does wonders to get peoples attention is when a person gets the number right, I toss them a bag of M&M's. :-) I go from people slumped in seats not to interested, to sitting upright and participating. Then randomly throughout the training when I get questions answered I throw the person the M&M's. Just tossing them out seems to let people know I am not wound to tight.
I have done quite a bit of training, and I approach it as how can I make this interesting......... almost entertaining.
My $0.02 worth.
DJ The Balloonman
What is also interesting is that some people may see the same quality in two different ways. Our VP has a policy of telling us everything right away - if they discuss that our office MIGHT close in 2 years, he lets us know. Some people think he's wonderful to keep us informed, I prefer not to know anything until its definite. That alone may get your group talking.
If you've already set this standard, please forgive me- One thing that is critical in these groups is that they know they are in a safe environment, that what is said in the group stays in the group. That may help them feel more comfortable about opening up, most people have lots and lots to say but are reluctant to share for fear of someone else hearing abou it.