This presentation was developed for a SpecialQuest staff retreat. After showing the presentation I led the staff through a Focused Conversation (Technology of Participation facilitation method) to identify and celebrate our strengths and target areas where we could enhance how we work together. Originally the Sugar Plum Fairy music from the Nutcracker Suite was paired with the slides. If I can get an uploadable copy of it, I will add that as audio.

1. Using a Focused Conversation to Facilitate Teamwork

8. It may appear chaotic behind the scenes…

9. … but there is organization that supports the magic that everyone sees.

10. It may not seem that the deliberation given to details is important…

11. … but without taking care of the details, attention would be on the flaws rather than the seemingly effortless implementation.

12. The logistics are more than just getting there…

13. … they are part and parcel of the approach and the delivery.

14. “ It makes a big difference, when you have a team who really know the nuances of every little piece of what you’re doing, even if it’s new. I couldn’t tell that yesterday was a new part of what you had developed because your team is so synchronized. I mean you’re like those synchronized swimmers who really all do everything together.”

15. What it all comes down to is…we must

16. How is our work in SpecialQuest Birth-Five like a synchronized swimming team?