It’s time for another staff meeting. Some teachers are grading papers in the back. Some seem to be checked out, and the same small group of teachers are dominating the discussion. Someone raises their hand, but as another dominating voice jumps in, they lower it. Communication during staff meetings can often be limited by those in attendance. Some people ramble on and on, some go off topic, and others repeat what was just said. And all throughout, the introverts keep their great ideas to themselves.
So, how do we encourage those introverted colleagues to share their voice? Well, it’s a simple idea, and it involves silencing everyone (well, sort of). That’s right, it’s time for the Silent Meeting. Seems counterintuitive, right? It may actually help everyone to communicate better.
Try these two options for hosting your own Silent Meeting:
The Digital Approach. Create a simple Google Doc that includes the meeting agenda, proposals and any problems to solve. Colleagues then spend about twenty minutes answering, providing solutions, reading, highlighting, commenting, and replying to each other using the document. Everyone maintains silence, and all of the work is done within the document.
The Analog Approach. Hang chart paper around the room, and add different questions or school initiatives. Teachers then walk around with markers and sticky notes and silently share their thoughts. They can share thoughts, questions, agreements or disagreements without saying a word. Again the work is done silently to give everyone a chance to participate.
This may seem like a gimmick to your colleagues, but why should you do this? First of all, this provides true equity in voice. Even the quiet, reflective teachers have the same voice as the extroverts in this structure. Reflection becomes a necessary part of the meeting. It can help to cut out emotional responses and instant reactions. Teachers will be forced to think clearly through their responses. The Silent Meeting can help everyone to share their voice.
Try implementing a Silent Meeting for even a fifteen minute portion of your next meeting. It can certainly help to level the playing field, and hopefully engage everyone in the meeting.
Rich
