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April 07, 2006

Glib vs real

Glib vs real: Kathy Sierra on ways groups fail: "In way too many meetings, the fastest talkers win. And by 'fastest talkers', I mean those who are the first to articulate an idea, challenge, issue, whatever. Too many of us assume that if it sounds smart, it probably is, especially when we aren't given the chance to think about it. The problem is, the guy with the 'gut feeling' -- the one who senses that something's not right, but has no idea how to explain it, let alone articulate it on the spot -- might be right. Too bad, though, because the glib usually rule." Lots of people think through their mouth, while others take a long time to find the words. It's also easy to get trapped by details when we should be figuring out if the project would actually work, given the viewpoints and incentives of all concerned. We all get hypnotized by group speech at times. How do you cope with such situations?

Posted by John Dowdell at April 7, 2006 08:48 AM

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Comments

I thrive in group discussions. As an audio learner, I solve most issues when talking to others. As long as I can articulate why I answer my own questions when speaking to others as merely a sounding board, I'm good to go.

For audio learners, it can frustrate those who they talk to. "Why did you ask me for help when you just answered your own question, and all I did was listen?"

For those who need to think before they speak, well, that just takes patience. Having someone who can help facilitate their thoughts help, but in my experience, there are some developers who just need time to digest before they speak.

...regardless, no one I know likes meetings, so proxy-via-glib is best, a.k.a. well spoken manager.

Posted by: JesterXL at April 7, 2006 09:24 AM

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