Learning in Public

Never be afraid to learn in public

There have been plenty of times when I’ve been in meetings and the conversation is swirling around me such that I can’t quite follow what problem(s) we’re trying to solve or where we’re trying go. I assume that everyone else understands what is going on and I’m the only one lost and confused. When I feel this way, I’m embarrassed to speak up and ask questions – afraid that I will come across as incompetent and that I will waste the group’s time with senseless questions.

That’s when I either tune out or start writing furiously in my notebook capturing all of the questions that I have and need to research. After the meeting I reach out to different colleagues and try to discover the answers.

When I choose the latter approach, often I learn that my colleagues also have questions. They had assumed that I understood what was going on and that they were the only ones who were lost and confused. Ironic, right?

Turns out that quite often when you’re confused there is likely someone else who shares your same questions and concerns.

What harm would it do if you spoke up and asked your questions during the meeting?

You are part of the team and therefore wouldn’t the team benefit from having all team members following along and able to fully contribute?

What if your questions helped someone else speak up? And if your question ends up being one of those “dumb” questions, then you’ve done everyone else a favor by opening the door to other “dumb” questions. Right? Wink!

I’ve seen folks offer really fun ways of asking a question, for example: “I’m asking this question on behalf of Chris and Pat. They’re a bit confused about <fill in the blank>.” This usually elicits a good chuckle and breaks the tension in the room. Folks will start asking their questions using a similar opening line – adding more levity and making room for more learning in public.

If everyone else does seem to understand what’s going on, then consider phrasing your questions in ways that seek clarification or summarizations. “Hey folks, how about if we take a moment here to capture our key facts, assumptions, actions, etc.?” “We’ve covered a lot of ground and I’d appreciate a summary of our decisions up to this point.” “I’m a little confused about <fill in the blank>, can we review this section again?”

As a leader and/or colleague, you will also want to read the room and see if others are struggling to find their voice. You can take a pause and go around the room to give every person a chance to offer their observations or ask a question. You can also take a 5-15 minute break which may allow folks the opportunity to engage colleagues casually and/or privately with their questions. When the group reconvenes, ask if any new questions or observations arose during the break.

So, the next time you find yourself with questions, speak up and ask away. The group will thank you!

“Don’t listen to the person who has the answers; listen to the person who has the questions.” – Albert Einstein, theoretical physicist

“Do not be afraid to ask dumb questions. They are easier to handle than dumb mistakes.” – Anonymous