Group Decision Tip: Closing comments
In principle, every chance we have to hear each other’s perspectives is a chance to improve understanding and build the foundation for better decisions. Often, the most valuable comments come right at the end of a meeting or discussion. At ease with each other after conversing awhile, people are more apt to speak their hearts. The group as a whole gets to see the unity of perspectives so often present at the end of a good meeting. This is also a last chance for someone to give voice to something important.
Practical Tip: Encourage meeting participants to make closing comments just before adjourning. Build time for closing comments into every agenda. Ask each person to share a reflection about the meeting or perhaps a particular hope or concern going forward. Encourage that the comments are brief, one at a time, and open no new discussions. A prescribed order helps. Let anyone pass who wishes.
Speak your own closing comment from your heart. Take in the closing comments of others.
