This is a great team activity which allows the team to see what it thinks of a decision, without actually agreeing on the final outcome. It works with any size group and requires about 10 minutes. You will need a prepared easel chart with a “5L” scale and one removable colored dot for each team member.
Assemble the team members in a space large enough for each person to see the others and the easel. When aiming for consensus, take a “straw poll” of the team’s energy and commitment to a specific outcome using this fun and simple tool.
First, ensure a complete understanding of the straw poll issue. Clarify any lingering questions the team may have.
Then have each person take one colored dot. (Note: you may “stratify” the team by giving different colored dots to distinct groups.)
Draw the “5L” scale on the easel chart. Walk through the definitions of each “L” and ask team members to silently vote on what they think of the solution:
- “You loathe it or hate it.
- You will lament it and moan about it in the parking lot.
- You can live with it.
- You like it.
- You really love it.”
Ask the team members to place their colored dot on the item, so that they are building a bar chart. After all have placed their dots on the easel chart, step back and evaluate.
Debrief and Summarize
Based on the results of the straw poll, see if the team agrees there is consensus. Consensus is that all votes are at least a “live with” or better.
In the event there are votes that are “loathe,” “lament,” or just a few “live with,” ask the team why someone voted that way. Be careful not to pick on a specific person, but get the team’s feedback on why there isn’t consensus.
Integrate the new feedback and build a better solution.
If you like this activity, check out my book, Team Energizers, for 49 other team activities!
Kristin Arnold is a professional meeting facilitator and international speaker who is passionate about helping leaders and their teams think things through, make better decisions and achieve sustainable results. The Extraordinary Team’s approach to building high performance teams combines consulting, coaching, training and process facilitation within the context of working real issues.
Recent Articles:
Simplified Parliamentary Procedure that Encourages Civilized Debate
How to Make Meetings More Fun, Motivating and Interactive with a Team Huddle
