Reading The Room

If you don't know the room you can't lead the room... so read the room!

When you have a group of people with you in a meeting, don't take for granted that everyone is on your page. Not everyone is overly occupied with what you're thinking. Some are distracted, some are opposed to your thought, some are with you, and some might be confused.

How can you address all these states of being in the same manner? You can't.

You also can't change your delivery if you don't know what is going on. So, instead of being so focused on yourself and what you're saying all the time, read the room. Get a feel for who is on board and who isn't. Make sure you are working to understand the position of each person.

When someone speaks, listen, don't think about the next thing you will say. Silence can be very useful, so instead of working so hard to eliminate silence, listen. When you need to respond, you will have all the information and taking a second or two to gather your thoughts won't kill the flow. I would say it would enhance the conversation. Changes in pace and volume will inevitably get people's attention, so use this to your advantage.

Pay attention to how people speak and their body language. If someone is upset, find out why, if someone is asking the same question multiple times, maybe ask one of your own to truly understand where you are missing them.

When you aren't speaking, make sure you listen as well as observe. Look at the responses of others to the person speaking, especially if it isn't you. Control your reactions and keep a level head. When you are constantly observing others, this becomes easier and more natural.

Take the time to read the room. Once you start to understand who you have and in what state, you will lead and serve your team so much better. Watch your progress as a company soar when you take a little time to gather information and adjust your strategy accordingly.