Got Paper and Pencil?

When I start working with a new client, I always explain that we are going to meet off-site so that we can direct our attention to working “on” the business, rather than working “in” the business. I remind them that everything will be waiting for them when they return to the office — nothing on their “to do” list will have magically disappeared.

This part of the discussion is generally met with understanding and agreement. But my next statement usually gets their attention: “And, we will disconnect for the day. That means we won’t have our cell phones on the table, we won’t use computers or tablets or any other electronic devices. We will rely on good old paper and pencil.”

Eyes shift, people give each other (and me) wary looks. I let them know we will take frequent breaks so they can check voice mail and emails throughout the day. And I again remind them it will all be there when they return to the office the next day.

Why paper and pencil you ask? Because it keeps each of us present in the moment. And it keeps us connected. We spend our time talking with each other, rather than muttering an occasional “uh-huh” while staring at a computer screen. Now we can have richer, deeper conversations because everyone knows each of us is paying attention.

There is a great deal of science-based research demonstrating that writing helps us learn quicker and promotes a deeper understanding of the information. Researchers at Princeton University and UCLA demonstrated that people who write notes, ideas, and thoughts out in longhand appear to learn better, retain information longer, and more readily grasp new ideas. The process of taking them down encoded the information more deeply in memory.

So the next time you have a meeting with your leadership team, try using paper and pencil rather than your electronic devices. Oh, and do the same thing when you take your weekly Clarity Break. And then watch how the energy and the discussion change.

The EOS® process is filled with tips such as using paper and pencil that make your organization stronger, your employees more engaged, and your results more impactful. The book, “Traction,” written by EOS® founder Gino Wickman, walks you through the Six Key Components™ and how to implement EOS® in your organization. I invite you to download the first chapter of “Traction” for free so you can read for yourself the value and influence EOS® has had on other business owners just like yourself.

If you are interested in learning more about EOS®, I am a Certified EOS® implementer and can help. My job is to walk you through the process, keep you on track, and help you implement the components and tips that will make your business succeed.

Please consider filling out the form below to request a 15-minute phone consultation with me. I don’t believe in high-pressure sales that make both of us feel uncomfortable. EOS® worked for me when I was a business owner, so I’m excited and happy to help others discover how it can work for them as well. Let’s schedule a convenient time to talk about what EOS® can do for your business.