Etiquette = Respect
I’ve shared my working space with a barrister over two lockdowns.
An open plan apartment with one dining table which happens to be the optimum spot for internet, lighting and sound.
We have a keener than usual interest in each other’s schedule.
‘When are your hearings today?’
‘What time is your workshop?’
Our work couldn’t be more different – as this photo shows.
I have a lot more ‘stuff’. Microphone, two screens, light, iPad, storyboard, graphic prompts - and the rest.
Tim’s set up takes a few seconds. Laptop, a perch to put it on, earbuds, his notebook and he’s ready to roll.
I forgot to move my brightly coloured circles after one workshop. Tim politely moved to another chair, rather than interfere with my set up. He’s a kind man.
I might wear a jacket for a client meeting or stakeholder workshop. But a bright t-shirt is fine for an interactive, energetic workshop.
I don’t think I’ve worn a skirt or a dress for months. Tim, by contrast, has to frock up occasionally. It’s like being on a Harry Potter set. If the Judge wigs, then Tim must do likewise.
It’s etiquette. Respect for the court is paramount. That’s why he’ll text a social worker supporting a client and ask them to get the young client to ‘take off his cap’ or ‘put out his cigarette’. Neither are good looks for a courtroom.
It doesn’t matter what anyone wears to my workshops. But etiquette is equally important. A courtroom or workshop, turn up:
✔ On time, if not early
✔ Prepared
✔ With your camera on
✔ Set up so that other participants can see your face – not up your nose. Yes, still.
Some of this stuff may seem so obvious and trivial. But it still comes up when I ask clients about their biggest challenges with online meetings.
The small things count. Get them out of the way so you can concentrate on the purpose of the workshop, or the court hearing. For the latter, it could mean the difference between freedom or jail.
‘At the end of the day it’s about respect,’ as Myriam Hadnes observed in her podcast interview with me, released last week.
🎧 Have a listen: #workshopswork podcast interview 🎧
A co- facilitator recently told me she liked my 'analogue' style. I had to double check what that meant 😊. I wonder if she got a preview of my interview with Myriam Hadnes on her #workshopswork podcast!? My use of real, physical tools emerged as the main message from our chat. I thought everybody did that. Looks like it's a thing!
Chatting to Myriam Hadnes on her podcast #workshopswork was just a joy. Hope you enjoy it too. Listen here.
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Image credit: Jacinta Cubis