John Jinks

If you are uncertain that you could use humor. I have good news for you. Humor, like public speaking, is a skill that can be developed. Confidence is speaking comes from experience. Your typical keynote speaker may get 1 talk per week - 52 hours per year.   Stand-up comedians can clock up 600 hrs in a year - a much quicker path to mastery.  In order to handle any criticisms they may face during presentations, and to build their speaking confidence, many executives speak at open mics at comedy clubs to develop their confidence and their sense of humor. If they can handle a heckler at a comedy club, they can handle Mitch from Accounting.

We connect best through story. It is the greatest tool given to us as speakers to get across our message. Often we want to focus on our success stories, but we also need to share things from the other side. When we are able to share stories of our mistakes, misconceptions. mishaps. disappointments, and some of our failures, we can connect more with our audience because they can more easily identify with it. This allows the audience member to see that you are really no different from them.

Laughter helps people let their guard down. If done early enough, it allows them to be open with what you shared. I opened up with a group of Christians by saying; "If I say anything that resonates with you, feel free to clap. If I say anything you find funny, feel free to laugh. If in the end, you get nothing out of this experience, I can pray for you." This caused the audience to break out in laughter and for me to start on the right foot. Bear in mind. I knew my audience so I could start that way.

Challenge Assumptions: To think "outside the box", we need to question what is "inside the box". Questioning established norms and assumptions can lead to innovative solutions, and encourage critical thinking. For example, let's look at a team of content creators, and one of the assumptions they might face. Assumption: Longer content performs better for SEO and engagement. Challenge: Instead of focusing solely on length, consider the depth and relevance of the content. Experiment with shorter, more concise pieces that deliver value quickly and efficiently.

I find before mediating or facilitating, it is important to affirm the relationship. When dealing with conflict, it’s crucial to start by addressing the positive aspects. Reaffirm common ground and use sincere words of praise before getting into the issue itself. Communicate respect. For example, express that you value the relationship more than avoiding the discomfort of confronting hurt feelings. Affirming the relationship is essential, and it should be repeated throughout the process.

Begin by focusing on understanding both parties' perspective. Explore their unmet expectations and what led to the misunderstanding. Allow each party to explain in their own words, and listen actively. Mirroring their words back to them signals your attentive listening. During this stage, avoid taking their words personally and give them the benefit of the doubt.