The idea of reading the room relates to Emotional Intelligence (EQ). EQ is often defined as the ability to understand, use, and manage your own emotions – and the emotions of others – in positive ways to relieve stress, communicate effectively, empathize, overcome challenges, and diffuse conflict.
When thinking of reading the room in that context, let’s look at ways we can use EQ to boost our effectiveness at work.
Read Your Manager/Boss/Client
If you walk into a meeting with your boss, ready to ask for some extra time on a project, are you first taking the time to read their mood? If they just came out of a meeting that did not go well, perhaps it’s not the time to ask for that time extension.
If you’re talking to a client and you have news that they probably don’t want to hear, are you first thinking about the situation from their perspective? If something isn’t favorable for them, there are ways you can phrase the news or potential solutions you could offer to soften the news.
Read the Group
Similarly, you need to read a group when you are delivering an update or presentation. Are people nodding off around the 15-minute mark? Are you seeing crossed arms and tapping feet, or, virtually, are you seeing cameras turn off? If so, quickly engage them with some open-ended questions. Read the group and tailor your tone.
Group dynamics can be complex and constantly changing, so continually observing the group and picking up on small cues is essential. Look for facial expressions, signs of agreement or disagreement, or even confusion. Pay attention to the tone and volume of others. It’s even helpful to be aware of established norms and expectations of the group. Developing your emotional intelligence and the skills to read a group effectively contributes to better communication, participation, collaboration, and engagement.
Express Yourself
In the same way you need to read others in the previous two situations, remember, others are also reading you. When you walk into the room, do you project confidence? When you present virtually, are you making eye contact? Are you really listening to what your employees are telling you in conversation?
These are just three ways we can strengthen our emotional intelligence by reading the room. I’m sure you’ll discover more ways to add to this list as you continue reading the room for opportunities.
