Encouraging Communication … with a Stick!

Looking for a way to encourage team members to more freely share their ideas and concerns? Like to discover (and learn from) viewpoints that are different from yours? Consider using a “talking stick.”

The talking stick has been used for centuries by many Native American tribes as a means for a just and impartial hearing – allowing all voices to be heard. When used in council circles, it designated who had the right to speak. When matters of great concern came before the council, the leading elder would hold the talking stick and begin. When he finished what he had to say, he would hold out the talking stick, and whoever wanted to speak after him would take it. In this manner the stick was passed from one individual to another until all who wished to speak had done so. The talking stick not only kept order but it also fostered mutual integrity. The holder of the stick was assured free speech, no reprisals, no humiliation and no interruptions. But with the stick also came responsibility. The speakers were charged with speak-ing wisely and truthfully. If they couldn’t do that, they’d be quiet or else bring dishonor to themselves.

Imagine the benefits a “talking stick “could bring to departmental and team meetings. It wouldn’t matter whether you passed a stick, a coffee mug, a ballpoint pen, a wrench, or whatever. What is important is the honoring of mutual integrity as well as the unstated assumption that everyone is seeking to under-stand a much larger perspective. So, give it a try – using these implementation tips:

Identify one or more focus questions to address. Encourage participants to speak freely.

Form an actual circle. This fosters equality and participation.

Introduce the “talking stick” and state the guidelines: Anyone may speak with no interruptions and no humiliation. Only the person holding the stick can talk. Each speaker must be truthful.

When everyone has spoken, summarize what has been said and explain what you will do with the information.For most people, this will be an experience that seldom happens in corporate life and might very well become a critical retention tool as well as a source for innovation and competitive advantage.