GET IT ALL

If the flow of the meeting is breaking down or if one person or small group seems to be dominating, anyone can call into question the technique being used and suggest an alternative.

Breaking into smaller groups can be very useful. These small groups can be diads or triads or even larger. They can be selected randomly or self-selected. If used well, in a relatively short amount of time all participants have the opportunity to share their own point of view. Be sure to set clear time limits and select a Note-taker for each group. When the larger group reconvenes, the Note-takers relate the major points and concerns of their group. Sometimes, Note-takers can be requested to add only new ideas or concerns and not repeat something already covered in another report. It is also helpful for the scribe to write these reports so all can see the cumulative result and be sure every idea and concern gets on the list.

Because of personal differences (experience, assertiveness, social conditioning, access to information, etc.) and political disparities, some people inevitably have more effective power than others. To balance this inequality, everyone needs to consciously attempt to creatively share power, skills, and information. Avoid hierarchical structures that allow some individuals to assume undemocratic power over others. Egalitarian and accountable structures promote universal access to power.

With many tools it is important to let people finish what they are saying, or for everyone to get a chance to speak before you add something which was inspired by the things others said. And an important part of transparency work is saying how things others have said impact you, especially if they evoke strong feelings. Crosstalk is where you respond to another person's spoken sharing.

Suggestions for Crosstalk:

• If you are hurt or angry about something said, start your talk with asking if they are ready and willing to hear your feelings ( see: Withholds).
• Be concise and if possible specific
• Talk more about your feelings and less about what you think.
• Use sentences starting with "I..." rather than "You..."- This will help eliminate judgmental statements, which tend to raise defensiveness and are generally recommended to avoid.
• Crosstalk should be about things between you and the person you are responding to regarding things that they have just recently shared with the group.