Learning styles matter in meetings.
In classrooms around the world, teachers identify the dominant learning styles of their students and ensure that their lesson plans use strategies and materials that incorporate the needs of all students to learn effectively. However, in the conference rooms around the world, learning styles are often completely ignored. It is common to have either all verbal meetings or lecture-style slide presentations.
While not detrimental, this can hinder communication, alignment and progress for a team of people with different learning styles. Taking a few extra minutes to get to know the learning styles of your colleagues and incorporating them into your meetings can go a long way towards increasing team efficiency, productivity and success.
I recommend considering the three learning styles below:
Visual learners- these colleagues like to see or observe images, diagrams, demonstrations, etc. I recommend using graphics, cartoons or illustrations of concepts; using flow charts or maps to organize materials; and using a white board to explain important information.
Auditory learners- these colleagues prefer to absorb information by listening to spoken words. I recommend conversing about topics; asking questions or asking for oral summaries of the information presented to confirm understanding; and recording explanations for their reference.
Tactile learners- these colleagues like to experience hands-on what they learn with their senses- holding, hearing and doing (moving, building, drawing, etc.) I recommend using props, using on-the-job training, work simulations or experimentation; and allowing them to move freely around the room and try things for themselves.
I also recommend considering the following two social contexts of learning:
Social or interpersonal learning- these colleagues thrive in group discussions and group coaching. I recommend forming small group discussions and activities; allowing for public speaking (presenting of work); allowing for Q&A time; and teambuilding time.
Solitary or intrapersonal learning- these colleagues prefer to work independently and would rather receive instruction and go about problem solving or creating a strategy on their own. I recommend including individual activities; allowing for thinking time (give them meeting info/context in advance); and allowing for individual contributions to a discussion.
You don’t have to cater to all styles at all times, however you should get to know the styles of the people you work with often, so you can incorporate different ways for them to engage in meetings. Remember, everyone in the organization brings their unique experience and perspective to the table. Drawing that out in a way that is natural to them is imperative to help the team arrive at the best path forward.