It's the Global Medical Affairs Professional Society (MAPS) conference this week, and it reminded me of a personal moment of learning from last year's event that has stuck with me.
At the end of one of the workshops I ran with Danie du Plessis on how to structure an Impactful Presentation, one of the attendees called me over.
The guy quickly but kindly drew my attention to an improvement I could make to my performance in the Q&A section of the workshop. I learned that I'd used the common phrase, 'that's a great question,' before responding to a few of the questions raised. He explained this was not a good thing to do.
The rationale is that if you always use a phrase like 'that's a great question', it means nothing. And if as is more likely you say it inconsistently, it is potentially discouraging to people asking questions because it suggests I was judging them.
I'd perhaps be lying if I said that I've never since uttered a phrase like that over the last 12 months, but hopefully, they are now rare.
It was useful feedback, and I'm glad the person generously took the time to share it with me. I hope you'll find some value in me repeating it.
Professional body conferences like those organised by MAPS are great opportunities to connect, reflect, and increase our learning. Here's wishing all the delegates at this year's event an enjoyable few days that fuel their personal growth.
#medicalaffairs
#MAPS24PR
#Peopledevelopment
#feedback
Part time
2moGreat perspective!