Why “Today’s Warm-Up Question Is…” Makes You Look Like an Amateur
When it comes to Forum meetings, we all know the drill: kick things off with a warm-up question. It’s a simple task, right? Just pick a question that can be answered in 90 seconds by each member. But here’s the kicker: starting this section with “today’s warm-up question is…” is a rookie move.
Let’s take a step back.
I’ve noticed this trend among moderators who, despite good intentions, miss a golden opportunity to inject life and meaning into the session. As a facilitator, I see this as a chance for growth. The secret? Make your warm-up question a reflection of your past month. By choosing a question that resonates with your recent experiences, you can say, “I chose this question because…” and share your story. This approach adds a layer of emotional weight that random questions just can’t match.
The point of this insight is simple: when your question is personal, it’s powerful. It transforms the warm-up from a mundane icebreaker into a moment of genuine connection. Participants aren’t just sharing answers; they’re sharing parts of themselves, creating what I call a Culture of Connection™ that’s vital for high-performing teams.
A study from Gallup found that employees who feel a sense of belonging are 56% more productive. The same principle applies here. By drawing on personal experiences, you’re not just facilitating engagement—you’re cultivating it.
Remember, leadership is about setting the tone. When you ask the question, go first. This gives everyone else time to think about their answer and simultaneously models what a good response looks like. It’s not just about filling the silence; it’s about leading by example.
So, the next time you’re in charge of a Forum meeting, skip the generic introduction. Dive into your experiences, share openly, and watch as your meetings transform from routine to meaningful. You might be surprised at how this small change can create a ripple effect of engagement and connection.