One of the best ways we learn as a species goes back to the historical tradition of apprenticeship which still exists in the trades. “Getting better” becomes exponentially quicker when someone teaches or informs you how to learn or do something you do not previously know. I remember in elementary school on Fridays we would have “show and tell,” and if nothing else, it was literally a stage for children to showcase their curiosities, interests, and discoveries. When teams utilize the same approach in a structured way, everyone benefits. It also includes an aspect of non-vulnerable self-disclosure in which team members can share new learnings and insights that can once again lead to one’s own self-discovery, insight, and new ways of performing to one’s optimal potential.

 

I like to keep the framework simple for this concept, and it can be a fast-paced update by everyone in the team titled “Something new and useful I learned this past week.” This allows for the fun show & tell component, gives everyone an opportunity to participate, and opens the door for post-meeting follow-up amongst team members. Now, if your response to this is “I don’t learn something new or useful every week,” then you may want to reflect on that and notice that difference amongst you and the high performers in your organization or business industry.

 

The Exercise:

If you are responsible for leading any kind of meeting, introduce this activity at least once. It should only take five minutes. If you’re not involved in an organization bring it up with your client, or other professionals you interact with in your network.