Thanks for your question on role play Jean, a few people have asked – what is the future of this tool – especially in an age increasingly dominated by technology?  Is is possible to re-create via computer the face time experience between two people?   There are many software programs that come close….but is it close enough?   We are now working with real-time, intervention experiences, especially focused on increasing communication skills, as a launching pad for deeper engagement via technology – that is to say – so problems raised in a real-time day-long interactive role play experience can be further addressed via advice given in phone consults (Skype!) and tele-conferencing.   In my opinion, this is a “best practice” use of technology for a variety of human resources red flags like hostile workplace, sexual harassment and anger management.  It’s tech as a tool for deeper human engagement – not a replacement for the human mind.  I’d love to hear about your experiences…..tell me more!

We were a little nervous.  But that just made us prep harder – and we couldn’t ignore the fact that most of the nerves were a result of our expectations of what our participants would be like.  Even with pages and pages of info – the reality of actually meeting someone tilts the gameplan on its ear.  Well, as improvisors – we are nothing if not flexible, adaptable and in the moment.  No one can accuse us of being wedded to the agenda for the day….even if I did spend way to much time putting that thing together.  It was a beautiful day – and what a joy to walk away feeling honored to be a part of this work.   Where we expected resistence – they gave us hunger for more.  Where we had to gently push – one or two pushed back – but we found middle ground.  I watched our team engage with all engines in their uniquely gifted ways and felt extremely proud to have created an opportunity for gifted people to do what they do best in an arena of live minds and charged emotions.  We were in our element.  All of us.  And as long a seven hour stretch as the day demanded – it felt like flying.

Here’s some resources we drew from for this piece of leadership and communication work:

You’ve encountered Switch before on this site, as well as Multipliers, and here’s two more for you: Art of the Possible and that old classic – Peter Senge’s Fifth Discipline.  I’d love to hear about your experiential training….experiences!  As well as what informs them – Happy flying!