The SIXCOMMS Podcast
The Six Cs in SIXCOMMS stand for: Connection, Curiosity, Compassion, Clarity, Customization and Consistency.
I'm Lisa, your host, and I believe these are the key ingredients to effective communication.
Now more than ever, we need to put human connection first when communicating across all channels and platforms. This podcast explores all things to do with communicating in a work environment now.
You will be able to pick up tips and techniques that will help you improve the way you communicate with yourself and others.
Website: https://www.sixcomms.org/
Email me at: lisa@sixcomms.org
The SIXCOMMS Podcast
Episode 72: Space to Connect with Emily Gardner
Whether you're a facilitator, a team leader or a manager or simply someone interested in improving how you create space for others to connect and feel comfortable contributing to discussions, this episode is for you!
Emily Gardner is a trainer, facilitator and coach. She specialises in facilitation skills, and has equipped over 1000 innovators and 250 facilitators. Emily is the author of: The Path of the Guide: A Framework for Effective Corporate Facilitation.
Here are just a couple of tips Emily shares:
- Mindset and Intention Matter: setting a clear mindset and intention at the beginning of any session is crucial. Emily emphasized using catchy phrases like "share the air" and "digimindful" to create a memorable framework for participants. This not only helps everyone understand the expectations but also fosters a sense of belonging and engagement throughout the session.
- Equality in Conversation: We also discussed the importance of equality and turn-taking in conversations, especially in diverse settings. Emily shared practical techniques like the "round technique," where everyone gets a chance to speak, and utilizing the chat function in virtual environments to balance voices. This approach not only empowers participants but also enriches the discussion by incorporating a variety of perspectives.
As always, we’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode!
What strategies have helped you create spaces for genuine connection?
Timestamps:
[00:02:04] Discussion on Vulnerability in Facilitation
[00:04:57] Balancing Vulnerability and Professionalism
[00:06:44] Mental Barriers to Deep Connections
[00:09:05] Challenges of Introversion in Virtual Spaces
[00:11:34] Importance of Early Engagement
[00:12:18] Facilitator's Role in Virtual Spaces
[00:13:08] Avoiding Front-Loading in Sessions
[00:14:45] Setting Mindsets and Intentions
[00:17:19] Must-Have Phrases for Inclusive Spaces
[00:19:05] Empowering Participants in Virtual Spaces
[00:20:04] Successful Hybrid Facilitation Example
[00:23:13] Ensuring Equality in Hybrid Sessions
[00:24:42] Three Practical Tips for Connecting Spaces
[00:27:06] Curiosity as a Key to Connection
Emily’s book: The Path of the Guide: A Framework for Effective Corporate Facilitation.
Connect with Emily:
Website: https://www.emilyfacilitates.com
Email: hello@emilyfacilitates.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilygardnerfacilitator/
Connect with Lisa:
Website: https://www.sixcomms.org/
Email: lisa@sixcomms.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisasing/
If you’d prefer to watch episodes, check out our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@sixcommsconversations517
