Ideal conversation partner
Create an opportunity to reflect on communication skills, particularly in the context of storytelling.
Duration: 50 minutes. Brainstorming: 10 minutes. Exercise execution: 20 minutes. Summary: 20 minutes.
Difficulty level: 1/5
Number of participants: Minimum 6 people
Source: Tomasz Dulewicz
Preparation
Flipchart and markers. Paper and color pens for participants
Instructions
Lead a 10-minute brainstorming session with the participants and ask them to answer the question: "What kind of people do you communicate best with?" Consider personality, character traits, communication skills, and behavior. Write down the characteristics of the "ideal conversation partner" provided by the group on a flipchart.
Ask the participants to individually choose from the listed traits those that describe their favorite conversation partner. Participants then write down the selected traits on their sheets, marking with a red cross those traits they possess.
In the next step, ask participants to highlight with a green circle those traits they would like to develop in themselves.
Start a discussion, addressing questions like:
What did you learn about your ideal conversation partner and your own perception as a conversational partner?
Who marked that they possess almost all the traits of their ideal conversation partner?
Who marked only a few?
How does our image of the ideal conversation partner influence the effectiveness of our communication?
Helpful tips
It’s good to highlight that this exercise focuses on being honest with oneself and thoughtfully evaluating one's communication skills to enhance them.
Summary
Invite participants to share their impressions and respond to one of three questions:
How do the traits of your ideal conversation partner match the way you tell your stories?
Which communication skills, like active listening or asking insightful questions, would you like to improve to make your storytelling more engaging?
How can a deeper understanding of your audience’s expectations help you tailor your storytelling to be more impactful and easier to follow?