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Hey there, innovation champions!
Today, I want to share a personal story that taught me a crucial lesson about communicating ideas effectively. It’s a tale of two phone calls that changed my approach to pitching innovative concepts, and I think it’ll resonate with many of you who are trying to drive change in your organizations.
Let’s rewind to 2017. Picture a slightly younger Melissa at a conference, discovering a methodology called LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®. I was immediately captivated. The potential for this tool to help people “think with their hands,” connect on a level playing field, and generate breakthrough ideas had me on fire! I knew THIS was going to change the world!
Excited about spreading the benefits of this transformative method, I had an idea: why not offer a pro bono session to a nonprofit organization’s board of directors? It seemed like a win-win. The nonprofit would benefit, and the directors would see the value firsthand, potentially implementing it in their own companies or spreading the word.
So, brimming with confidence, I reached out to a couple of executive directors I knew personally. I mean, who wouldn’t jump at this amazing opportunity, right?
Well, let me tell you about that first phone call…
It was a disaster.
The executive director wasn’t just uninterested – they were almost hostile! “Our board members don’t have time to play with LEGO,” they said dismissively.
No matter how I tried to explain that LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® wasn’t just “playing with LEGO,” it fell on deaf ears. I had lost before I’d even started.
Talk about humiliating. Getting off that call, my stomach was in knots. It was gut-wrenching.
But here’s the thing about failure – it’s an incredible teacher if you’re willing to learn. And boy, did I learn.
When I got on the call with the next executive director, I took a completely different approach. Instead of launching into my pitch, I started by saying I was interested in helping her and asked what her needs were. Only after listening and understanding her challenges did I share how I could assist and make my offer.
The result? Not only did I end up designing and facilitating a day-long staff retreat for this organization, but this director became one of my most loyal clients. She’s hired me again and again for staff and board retreats and tells everyone she knows about me!
(In fact, I just led yet another staff off-site for them on Monday!)
That, my friends, is the power of effective communication.
So, what changed? How did I not only get my idea heard but successfully “sell” it the second time around? (And yes, even when no money is involved, our job as communicators is to sell our ideas!)
Let’s break it down using my Create the Impossible™ framework:
- Play Hard: In my second attempt, I approached the conversation with curiosity and openness, much like a child at play. I was ready to explore and discover, rather than pushing my predetermined agenda.
- Make Crap: My first attempt was a “crappy” prototype of my pitch. Instead of getting discouraged, I used that experience to refine and improve my approach.
- Learn Fast: I quickly adapted my strategy based on what I learned from the first call. This rapid iteration was key to my success.
Now, let me share three practical takeaways you can apply in your own communication efforts:
- Listen First, Pitch Second: Before presenting your idea, take the time to understand your audience’s needs and challenges. This allows you to tailor your message effectively.
- Frame Your Idea in Their Context: Once you understand their needs, explain your idea in terms of how it solves their specific problems. This makes your proposal much more relevant and appealing.
- Be Flexible: Be ready to adapt your approach based on the feedback you receive. Sometimes, the way we think our idea should be presented isn’t the most effective way for our audience.
Here’s your challenge for this week:
Before your next big pitch or presentation, schedule a “needs assessment” conversation with your audience. Use this information to refine your approach. Then, pay attention to how this impacts the reception of your ideas.
Remember, effective communication isn’t about having the perfect words or the most polished presentation. It’s about connecting with your audience, understanding their needs, and presenting your ideas in a way that resonates with them.
Are you ready to level up your communication game and start Creating the Impossible™ in your organization?
I’d love to hear from you. What’s a communication challenge you’re facing right now? Schedule a complimentary Innovation Strategy Session and let’s brainstorm some solutions together!
Senior Leaders: Are you ready to empower your team with the communication superpowers they need to drive innovation? Let’s chat about how we can transform your organization’s communication culture. Book a complimentary Innovation Strategy Session here.
Remember, in the world of tech and innovation, the most serious business is play. Let’s Create the Impossible™ together!
