I find it SO weird that people can’t handle simple social interactions anymore.
“Hi! I’m shalafi. Despite appearances, I’m a bit of a redneck. Love kayaking, hiking, camping, stuff like that. After I get out of here, you’re likely to find me in a swamp. LOL, don’t dress like this on the weekends!”
Yes. Shmoozing during official meeting time is a waste of everyone’s time. Keep it for before/after, it serves its purpose, but once the meeting starts it should be business oriented.
It honestly depends on the meeting through. I think at the onset of a project, or if you’re having like a brainstorming meeting, introductions can help loosen everyone up and understand where other people are coming from. They have a very legitimate purpose if people will have to work cooperatively. That said, if you’re never going to have to talk to each other or work together in any real way, or if you already know each other, sure, skip that and get to the real content.
There’s a reason that introductions and ice breakers are included in adult training and team building activities. They can legitimately change the mindset of a hierarchical “here’s what you’re doing and you don’t get shit” to a collaborative space for sharing. People who are engaged and feel their opinion is valued are better contributors and learners.
Hi! I’m John. Despite appearances I’m a registered sex offender in 17 states and can no longer enter the state of Alaska due to my penchant for buggery of wildlife. After work today I’m gonna get sloshed and walk around in a park until I urinate on a playground. hope to see you tomorrow, or I might be registered to lucky number 18!
I find it SO weird that people can’t handle simple social interactions anymore.
“Hi! I’m shalafi. Despite appearances, I’m a bit of a redneck. Love kayaking, hiking, camping, stuff like that. After I get out of here, you’re likely to find me in a swamp. LOL, don’t dress like this on the weekends!”
<pass the mike>
I don’t want to know about your hobbies, I want to know what your function in this project is and why you’re in this meeting.
Well, I liked learning about his hobbies I guess…
Sorry I wasted 6 seconds of your time when the assignment was to introduce ourselves in a sociable manner. You must be a joy to work with.
Yes. Shmoozing during official meeting time is a waste of everyone’s time. Keep it for before/after, it serves its purpose, but once the meeting starts it should be business oriented.
Respect people’s time.
It honestly depends on the meeting through. I think at the onset of a project, or if you’re having like a brainstorming meeting, introductions can help loosen everyone up and understand where other people are coming from. They have a very legitimate purpose if people will have to work cooperatively. That said, if you’re never going to have to talk to each other or work together in any real way, or if you already know each other, sure, skip that and get to the real content.
There’s a reason that introductions and ice breakers are included in adult training and team building activities. They can legitimately change the mindset of a hierarchical “here’s what you’re doing and you don’t get shit” to a collaborative space for sharing. People who are engaged and feel their opinion is valued are better contributors and learners.
am I doing this right?
Wait, you’re supposed to mention hobbies?
I always just say “Hi, I’m {name}, I’m a {jobTitle} I’ve been working here {numberOfYears} years” and then pass it on.
You forgot long walks on the beach. I’m pretty sure that you have to mention that.