Please join us for an enjoyable bridge building dialogue called the Art of Group Conversation. It has been described as “a way of helping a roomful of people, even strangers…to feel something of the warmth and trust of longtime friends and neighbors.” 

Through a sort of memory matching game, we will discover our connections and get much better acquainted. The atmosphere will be relaxed, and everyone can participate as much or as little as they like. 

The Art of Group Conversation is based on memories and storytelling that reveal our “shared experiences instead of ideas and opinions.” It is not designed for discussion, debate or decision making, but helps people to get better acquainted and is most valuable as a preparation for a next step – such as collaboration.

Trained facilitators take group members through a process of storytelling and memory matching that build rapport and bridges the distance caused by discomfort or distrust.

Near the end of the session, facilitators lead participants through a reflection and exploration of the issues concerning the group. When the session ends, the group is better prepared to work toward shared interests and goals and can engage in discussion and decision making with greater ease.

Psychologist and author of The Nature of Prejudice Gordon Allport wrote “Probably no more efficient method has been devised for bringing about good initial group sympathy and rapport.” “I myself have marked the rapid success of the method in producing precisely this feeling. The process is effortless and playful, spontaneous and mirthful–in short, it is fun.” Light refreshments will be served after the conversation.

If you plan to attend this event, please RSVP to Angela Lenda at angela@advancingmacomb.com.