Table of Contents, Communication Secrets

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Theater of One

The concept of communications theater also has applicability to one-on-one communications. The leader needs to demonstrate respect for the listener in ways that go beyond words. During a formal coaching session, the leader may assume the role of host. Invite the employee into the office, offer refreshments, make certain that the person is sitting in a comfortable chair, and, if appropriate, close the door to the office. These are little things, to be sure, but they reflect courtesy for the other person, not as a performer, but as a fellow human being.

Leaders can extend these same courtesies at meetings in a variety of ways. Offer to get coffee for the group. If the meeting will run more than 60 minutes, consider treats or snack foods. Rotate the assignment of running the meeting. Do not be the first one to speak; allow others to voice their opinions first. Again, these are small measures, but when taken together they demonstrate a leader's concern for others.

Content + Preparation + Audience = Moment of Truth. Use these tips to help you prepare for your moment of truth.

Consider your leadership message. Imagine yourself preparing to go on stage.
- What does the audience want to hear?
- How can you bring your personality to bear on the message?
- What story can you tell on yourself that might break the ice and put the audience at ease?
Listen to your voice on tape. Make notes about your tone and inflection.
Imagine a presentation style. When I speak, I like to keep the mental image of Rob Petrie from the Dick Van Dyke Show in mind. If you recall the show, Rob (played by Van Dyke) was thin and lithe, and exuded a great deal of physical comedy with seemingly little physical movement. His movements, including the pratfalls, were polished and practiced.
Practice speaking in front of a mirror. It's probably the oldest technique in the world, but there's a reason for this: It works!
Watch yourself on videotape. Make notes about your movements and your voice. Do they work in concert?
Plan your rehearsal time. Plan what you will do in advance; that way, you can maximize your time on stage.
Watch the professionals. Attend lectures or speeches whenever possible. Watch what the pros do, and as you do so, make notes on the following points:
- How do they walk on stage?
- How do they welcome the audience?
- What gestures do they employ?
- How do they make the audience feel? Why do they do this?
Consider a situation in which a facilitated dialogue might be appropriate. [A facilitated dialogue is similar to a focus group where a facilitator (or even the speaker) asks questions designed to elicit opinions and ideas of the audience. See Chapter 9 for more on a facilitated dialogue.]
- What is the issue that you would explore? Why is dialogue more appropriate for it than a straight presentation?
- What questions would you pose to yourself and the audience?
- What would you want as the desired outcome?
Think about your next meeting or coaching session. How will you employ some elements of communications theater to underscore your leadership message?