Hi Barb, 

The simplest way to reduce anxiety in meetings is to help people connect right away -- to themselves, to each other, and to the topic of the meeting.  

But when we don't do this first thing, it can be hard for meaningful conversation—and real collaboration—to get started. 

When we launch right into the task at hand, participants may feel disconnected and a little tense.  We either end up building connection simultaneously while doing business (which is can detract from both) ...or not at all.  Either way, the meeting may take more time and be less engaging and productive. 

I’m always looking for simple ways to create more connection in meetings—without adding pressure or anxiety for anyone.

Here’s something I tried recently, when I was leading a staff retreat for a group of doctors, who rarely worked with each other, despite being in the same organization. Many of them had not even met.

As the doctors came into the meeting room, I handed each one a sheet of paper asking them to describe a fact about themselves that no one else knew. Their faces grew thoughtful as they wrote.

We collected the papers and laid them out in the back of the room where people could browse during breaks and lunch.

Later in the day, we invited everyone to guess who had shared each fact, and then the individual revealed what their fact was and how it may relate to the work they do now.

When I read the feedback forms afterward, I was surprised by how many people mentioned this activity as one of the most impactful parts of the day.

Are you looking for ways to increase engagement in your meetings? Check out the resources below!

Warmly,

Barb Bickford

Exploration of Deep Collaboration 
— Monday, December 22, 2025   5 PM Eastern, 4 PM Central, 3 PM Pacific.   60 minutes, online on Zoom  
Cost: $5.00

Have you ever felt a meeting that "flowed"?  Potential is unlimited when people collaborate at a high level, at the level of flow.

In this online meeting, Cassandra O’Neill and I will be hosting an exploration of Deep Collaboration using the Flow Game. Join us virtually to practice collaboration skills while exploring questions that matter. And -- it will be fun!  Register HERE

Science Networking Online – Session 3
-- Monday, December 22, 2025 at 1 PM Eastern / 12 noon Central / 10 AM Pacific, 90 minutes online on Zoom.  No cost. 

Join us in an online networking event designed for scientists who want to improve their networking skills while actually networking!  Learn more here.  Sign up by 12/21 to ensure you receive the meeting link. 

Note: we have switched from registering for each event to registering once for all upcoming events.  Register now -- it's quick and easy! 

Liberating Structures — Stories from the Field 
— Book being released in 2026

Anja Ebers and Birgit Nieschalk have gathered a set of stories about real people using Liberating Structures (LS), including my own experience of using 15% Solutions for the first time. 

Their book is coming out in 2026. Get notified when the book comes out!  

The authors and contributors hope the book will inspire and support people everywhere to explore, deepen, and expand their LS practice. The variety of stories helps readers connect to LS in everyday contexts – whether you’re just starting or are already an experienced practitioner.

How to Address Crosstalk in Virtual Meetings

Crucial Learning has a helpful video for those who run online meetings. Access the video here. 

Our upcoming events, workshops and courses

-- Transitions retreat in Arizona, February 4-8, 2026
-- Transitions retreat in Wisconsin, April 10-12, 2026

Start Small to Spark Connection

You don’t need to run a long involved activity to help people feel more at ease. A simple question that invites people to reflect or share something small can warm up the room quickly.

Here are some examples of questions you can ask people to discuss in pairs or small groups:

• What’s one thing that caught your attention recently?
• What are you curious about today?
• What do you hope this meeting will make easier?
• Where would you like to go on your next vacation?

Try just one question at the start of your next meeting. Even one minute of connection can shift the tone and make collaboration easier.

Looking for a past newsletter?  Find it in the Newsletter Archive. 

Want even more tips? Access Ten Tips to Foster Online Engagement.

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Photo Credit: Grady Reese, Getty Images Signature on Canva Pro