Pat’s Point of View

I’ve recently been helping a client with needs analysis, including using interviews, focus groups and touching on a technique called ‘anecdote circles’ (for an excellent introduction see the Ultimate Guide to Anecdote Circles, published by a company called Anecdote funny enough). I read with interest the following with regard to the technique:

The facilitator [of an anecdote circle] takes a low profile. That can mean reducing eye contact with those sharing their stories, though remaining present and listening. Subtle twiddling with recording equipment knobs can be a good ‘low status’ behaviour. The use of silence is another ‘low-status’ technique. When there is silence, savour it, let it hang. This can help the group to develop its own sense of pace as well as reinforcing that you are here as a guide, not a leader.

That’s me! I think I perform that role with ease, as my natural tendency is to lurk, observe, be silent and generally be a wall-flower. And I’m an expert twiddler.

I’m also reading the Tao of Coaching by Max Landsberg, which among other things, shouts the virtues of listening and questioning as opposed to telling and leading. Again, being the quiet guy is a useful personality trait.

I always knew being an introvert would come in handy.

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