Effective groups sit together and discuss in order to reach a final decision. Ideally, members would communicate ideas and exchange feedback in response to the issue raised. This process can be labelled as "group communication" - that we talk to each other, explain our stance, ask for clarification, and debate contradicting ideas.
Sometimes, group discussions lead to conflict - don't panic. This is a healthy progress because group members are open to express their own opinions - never succumb to groupthink, that is. This conflict will invite debate, sub groups, further debate, and finally a group decision via majority vote or consensus.
Indeed, group communication entails a lot of talking!
So, what if you're "born" - shy? quiet? and you believe you have problems with self-confidence and self-esteem? What if you become sick on the discussion day, and you've lost your voice, and you can't cognitively process the information in order to argue for or against a preliminary decision. Do you suddenly lose your significance? What can you do to (still) contribute to the success of your group communication?
Sometimes, group discussions lead to conflict - don't panic. This is a healthy progress because group members are open to express their own opinions - never succumb to groupthink, that is. This conflict will invite debate, sub groups, further debate, and finally a group decision via majority vote or consensus.
Indeed, group communication entails a lot of talking!
So, what if you're "born" - shy? quiet? and you believe you have problems with self-confidence and self-esteem? What if you become sick on the discussion day, and you've lost your voice, and you can't cognitively process the information in order to argue for or against a preliminary decision. Do you suddenly lose your significance? What can you do to (still) contribute to the success of your group communication?
TIPS:
- Recall the good, easy moments in class when your close friend talks (or presents a speech) in front of the class and you sit back comfortably at your seat. Once in a while, you'd nod your head and smile to show support. Now, apply this skill to your group and see how you encourage others to talk. When they return your favour, you'll find support in speaking your mind - speak up!
Can you imagine a group of speakers with no listener at all? Hence, one way to make groups work is to train listeners as much as we train speakers. Of course not passive listeners!
Use nonverbal messages like leaning forward, head nods, hand movement, as regulators to direct the flow of interaction.
If you have quiet and shy members, who undoubtedly have lots of ideas, prompt them to talk. Probes like - "Let's listen to Qila's opinion on this issue" or "I'm sure Raj can explain this better than me" - shifts the responsibility to talk onto the less extrovert member - at least, it saves him from volunteering his idea!
Limit your group discussion to one idea or issue within one time frame. Arguing over four or five ideas at one time makes you muddled and puzzled...and move on to the following ideas using transition signals or signposting.
In a nutshell, this article emphasizes on how completely anybody can play an effective role in a group discussion. It doesn't require a talkative person, nor an extrovert personality, or a leader to make groups work!
I'm sure you have experienced your own secrets of group success. Please share it with the person next to you, and also this blog community.
