Effective Virtual Conversation Tip #5: Becoming a Chameleon

I've been sharing different tips on Effective Virtual Conversations from my new book over at my sister blog, Teams365 (for Leaders) for a few months now, and I am bringing some of my favorites over to this new blog. One of the things that you may notice if you've been working with groups or teams for a while is your ability to be like a Chameleon. This is especially true when working as a virtual conversationalist and leading different virtual events, especially given that the geographic range of the members you may be working with can potentially be larger than when we work in-person. In connecting with people of varying styles and preferences, it can be very important for us to become aware of the biases and preferences we bring, and how that can help, and hinder a conversation. With time our ability to become more of a chameleon, adapting our approaches in service to the groups and teams work  with, can become a definer of who we are.

Here's what I wrote a few weeks ago in EVC Tip #5 - 

On page 100 of my upcoming book, Effective Virtual Conversations, I write "As virtual facilitators we may become chameleon-like over time, as we look to adapt and adjust our styles and approaches for different contexts".

Hopefully, as we gain experience with different groups and different platforms we learn from each experience. Being able to be fluid and adaptable with our approaches is critical for this work, in order to meet the needs of diverse groups and teams.

This week consider these questions:
1. How would you describe your natural facilitation/leadership styles?
2. How would your groups/teams/clients describe your natural style?
3. What are your biases? (i.e. what's your natural style even if it's not in service to the group you are working with?)
4. What style might be more in service to the people you are working with?
5.  What is a stretch point for you?
6. What does chameleon-like mean for you?
7. When have you been fluid in your approaches? What impact has it had?

​I hope that you will take a few minutes to reflect on these questions and think about your work and upcoming conversations.

​If you haven't checked out the recent calls I have started doing on Effective Virtual Conversations, you can check them out here, along with the upcoming call schedule. Hope that you will drop in and join me live!

​Have a great week,
Jennifer

​Jennifer Britton
Potentials Realized | EffectiveVirtualConversations
Team and Leadership Development | Coaching | Retreats.
Follow us on Twitter @jennbritton
Phone: (416)996-8326

Do you have questions about virtual facilitation? Looking to book a some time with me. Check out current openings and a summer special where you can "pick my brain" for a 45 minute call. Click here to book.

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