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Hey team, let’s huddle around to discuss communication!

Football is one of the best examples of the transformative power of the huddle. We’ve all seen these impromptu meetings on the field. Players gather, look each other in the eye and plot their attack on the opposition---all within a matter of seconds! Once play resumes, the game can change dramatically.

Whether on the field or in the conference room, the huddle is a useful communication tool because it promotes time-limited, direct, person-to-person contact.

Among preventive pet healthcare advocates, the Preventive Pet Healthcare workbook is a comprehensive resource for guidance, tips and strategy. Convincing pet owners to embrace preventive care is largely contingent on communication that promotes understanding.

Complementing the step-by-step process outlined in the workbook are scripts and education strategies available on The Partners for Healthy Pets website that can be used to refine and enhance communication.

As Champions review, adapt and implement scripts and client education strategies, they should also plan to evaluate the effectiveness of the approach being used. Brief, informal huddles with relevant team members encourage feedback on the message being conveyed to clients in a timely manner in a setting where all who communicators are given a voice.

How to Organize the Perfect Huddle »

Even if you’ve never played football, you have likely participated in a number of work-related huddles so you can understand their importance. Below is a list of suggestions for hosting a huddle that will leave the team feeling energized.

Elements of a Great Huddle

• Be sure the meeting is face-to-face and that all key players are involved in order to receive comprehensive feedback.
• Select a convenient time, day and location and try to minimize distractions. Scheduling a huddle at the end of the day when players are mentally ticking off what needs to get done before they leave may make engagement challenging.
• Keep the meeting brief…about 15 minutes.
• Prior to the huddle, let the team know what will be discussed. Keep a checklist handy to be sure you cover what needs to be addressed.
• Identify roles ahead of time. Who is the quarterback? Is there someone else who should be leading the discussion? Iron out the details prior to the meeting so the team can focus on the business at hand.
• The huddle is not a status or planning meeting. It is simply a quick evaluation of the priority item, which allows staff to quickly state their concerns and provide input.
• All team members should have a chance to speak.
• Standing is a great idea. It literally keeps participants on their toes and ensures the meeting doesn’t run too long.

Huddles provide opportunities to receive constructive feedback and respond to issues. They can become useful platforms for making improvements and field testing initiatives. They also can improve the team culture, strengthen relationships and finesse client communications for a small, targeted investment of time.

Now, what are you waiting for? Hut, Hut, Huddle!